What Is Traumatic Shock?
“Traumatic shock, also known as acute stress disorder, is the body’s defense mechanism or reaction to overwhelming emotions following a traumatic event. The mind and body freeze or disassociate to protect the psyche since the brain is unable to completely understand or respond to the traumatic incident.”
Dr. Burwell agrees.
Symptoms of Traumatic Shock
Physical Signs and Symptoms
the following are some of the physical symptoms of traumatic shock:
- A drop in blood flow that occurs suddenly.
- pupils that are dilated
- Irregular heartbeat is a condition in which the heartbeat is irregular.
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Tension in the muscles
- Having trouble moving or working
- Unconsciousness
Emotional Symptoms
These are some of the emotional and cognitive symptoms of traumatic shock.
- Cognitive fog
- Numbness
- Disconnection
- Denial
- Withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Panic
- Confusion
- Inability to concentrate
- Difficulty coping with emotions and memory
Trauma Is Subjective
Trauma is extremely subjective. It’s less indicative of the actual event and more attributed to the way a person interprets or makes meaning of the experience. Two people could suffer from the exact same traumatic event and respond completely differently.