Clinical insight for individuals and families across Acadiana seeking to understand trauma-related conditions.
Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. At Aucoin & Associates Psychology Practice in Lafayette, LA, we understand the pervasive impact trauma can have on people of all ages. Our goal is to offer clarity and education around trauma disorders to support those navigating their path toward recovery—whether seeking treatment or simply better understanding their mental health.
What is Psychological Trauma?
Psychological trauma may result from a single traumatic incident or from prolonged exposure to stressful and harmful environments. It is not the event itself that defines trauma, but rather the individual’s emotional experience and lasting psychological impact. Trauma can be caused by:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Domestic violence
- Natural disasters
- Accidents or injuries
- Medical emergencies or invasive procedures
- Witnessing violence
- Combat or military service
Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop a trauma-related disorder, but for many, these experiences can alter brain function, emotional regulation, and behavior long after the event has passed.
Types of Trauma Disorders
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD occurs following exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. Symptoms typically last more than one month and may include:
- Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Negative changes in mood and cognition
- Heightened arousal (e.g., difficulty sleeping, irritability, hypervigilance)
PTSD can affect children, adolescents, and adults. For some, symptoms may appear shortly after the trauma; for others, symptoms may emerge months or even years later.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)
ASD involves similar symptoms to PTSD but occurs in the first 3–30 days following a traumatic event. Early intervention can reduce the risk of developing PTSD.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
C-PTSD may result from chronic, long-term trauma—such as childhood abuse or prolonged domestic violence. In addition to core PTSD symptoms, individuals with C-PTSD often experience:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Dissociation
- Persistent feelings of shame or guilt
- Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships
Adjustment Disorders
These occur when an individual has difficulty coping with a major life change or stressor, such as divorce, job loss, or moving. While less severe than PTSD, symptoms of adjustment disorders can still significantly impair daily functioning.
Trauma and the Brain
Trauma can alter the structure and function of key brain regions, particularly:
- The amygdala, which heightens threat detection
- The hippocampus, which can impair memory consolidation
- The prefrontal cortex, which regulates emotion and executive functioning
These neurological changes can explain why trauma survivors may experience memory issues, emotional instability, and difficulty concentrating.
Developmental and Childhood Trauma
When trauma occurs in childhood, especially in the context of caregiving relationships, it can disrupt neurological and emotional development. Known as developmental trauma, this form may not fit neatly into PTSD diagnostic criteria but often underlies attachment issues, mood instability, and behavioral concerns.
Children and adolescents exposed to trauma may exhibit:
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Regression in behaviors
- Somatic complaints (e.g., stomachaches)
- Aggression or withdrawal
- School difficulties
Trauma and Co-occurring Disorders
Trauma is frequently linked to other mental health conditions, including:
- Depression
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Substance Use Disorders
- Dissociative Disorders
- Borderline Personality Disorder (especially when trauma is chronic)
Proper diagnosis and trauma-informed care are essential to addressing the root causes and coexisting symptoms.
Want to learn how we help individuals affected by trauma? Visit our Trauma Therapy page to explore our evidence-based approaches to healing for Acadiana clients.
Further Education
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR®).
van der Kolk, B. A. (2015). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN): www.nctsn.org
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): www.samhsa.gov