Trauma: What are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of hyperarousal, constriction, dissociation, and freezing are all common responses to trauma. Each of these symptoms represents a different way in which the body and mind may respond to a traumatic event.

Hyperarousal refers to a state of heightened alertness or arousal, which can cause a person to feel jumpy, anxious, or on edge. This can be a protective response to a perceived threat, as the body prepares to fight or flee from danger.

Constriction, on the other hand, refers to a state of physical and emotional shutdown, in which a person may feel numb, disconnected, or detached from their surroundings. This can be a way of protecting oneself from overwhelming emotions or sensations.

Dissociation is a more extreme form of constriction, in which a person may feel disconnected from their body or their sense of self. They may feel as though they are watching themselves from a distance or as though their surroundings are not real. Dissociation can be a way of escaping from the reality of a traumatic event.

Freezing refers to a state of paralysis or immobility, in which a person may be unable to move or take action. This can be a response to extreme fear or a perceived threat, as the body prepares to “play dead” as a way of avoiding danger.

These four symptoms are often seen as a continuum of trauma response, with hyperarousal and constriction representing opposite ends of the spectrum, and dissociation and freezing representing more extreme responses. Each of these symptoms can be adaptive in certain situations, but they can also interfere with a person’s ability to function and cope with daily life, especially if they persist for an extended period of time.