Invisible wounds

Some wounds can’t be seen but they are there.

COMMON MENTAL HEALTH EFFECTS OF TRAUMA:

Flashbacks – reliving aspects of a traumatic event or feeling as if it is happening now, which can happen whether or not you remember specific details of it.

Panic attacks – a type of fear response. They're an exaggeration of your body's response to danger, stress or excitement.

Dissociation – one way your mind copes with overwhelming stress. You might feel numb, spaced out, detached from your body or as though the world around you is unreal.

Hyperarousal – feeling very anxious, on edge and unable to relax. You might be constantly looking out for threats or danger.

Sleep problems – you might find it hard to fall or stay asleep, feel unsafe at night, or feel anxious or afraid of having nightmares.

Low self-esteem – trauma can affect the way you value and perceive yourself.

Self-harm – hurting yourself as a way of trying to cope. This could include harming parts of your body that were attacked or injured during the trauma.

Suicidal feelings – including being preoccupied by thoughts of ending your life, thinking about methods of suicide or making plans to take your own life.

Alcohol and substance misuse – a way you might try to cope with difficult emotions or memories.

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/trauma/effects-of-trauma/