Trauma may leave signs of stress. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shares these signs that a person who has survived a traumatic event needs assistance managing stress.
The signs:
• Disorientation or confusion and difficulty communicating thoughts.
• Limited attention span and difficulty concentrating.
• Becoming easily frustrated.
• Overwhelming guilt and self-doubt.
• Depression, sadness and feelings of hopelessness.
• Mood swings and crying easily.
• Difficulty maintaining balance.
• Headaches or stomach problems.
• Tunnel vision or muffled hearing.
• Colds or flu-like symptoms.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Poor work performance.
• Reluctance to leave home.
• Fear of crowds, strangers or being alone.
• Increased use of drugs and/or alcohol.
Source: “Tips for Survivors of a Traumatic Event” by SAMHSA