Trauma is the emotional response to events or situations that feel overwhelming, frightening, or deeply distressing.
It can be caused by one event or by repeated experiences over time.
Trauma can affect our thoughts, feelings and behaviour. These effects can show up right away, or not for a very long time
Support is available to help you cope and recover.
Understanding trauma
People of any age can be affected by traumatic experiences, and everyone experiences trauma in a different way.
These factsheets can help you understand what trauma is, when you might experience it, and how it can affect your thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
Trauma from Mental Health Foundation
Understanding child brain development from NSPCC Learning
Trauma, Dissociation and Immobility from NoPanic
Managing trauma
These resources offer practical tips to help you recognise what affects you, cope with strong emotions, and deal with trauma in a healthier way.
Looking after your child following trauma from the NHS
Coping with stress following a major incident from the NHS [PDF]
What causes trauma and understanding its symptoms from Verywell Health
Worksheets and activities
These worksheets and activities can help you reflect on your experiences, identify your strengths and heal.
23 post-trauma growth worksheets from Positive Psychology
Trauma resource pack from NHS Frimley Health [PDF]
Support helplines
Here is a list of UK-wide helplines related to trauma.
Victim Support Scotland (for victims of crime)
NAPAC (support and signposting around childhood abuse)
Rape Crisis Scotland (for people who have experienced sexual abuse/assault/rape at any point in their lives)
Scottish Women’s Aid (for all things domestic abuse)
Veterans Gateway (for veterans and a dedicated combat stress phoneline)
Birth Trauma Association (for information and support around birth trauma)
Cruse Scotland (for bereavement support)
Organisations and services
Here is a list of UK-wide organisations related to trauma.
If you are looking for local support, please go to our service directory to find out what services and projects are available to you.
Videos