Different types of TRAUMA 1. ACUTE TRAUMA This is trauma that comes from a single, overwhelming event. Examples: - Car accidents - Physical assault - Sudden loss of a loved one - Natural disasters Deep Impact: - The nervous system gets shocked and overloaded in a short moment - Creates strong fear imprints tied to memory - Can lead to hypervigilance, panic, or avoidance Internal Effects: - “I am not safe” - “Something bad can happen at any moment” - 2. CHRONIC TRAUMA This develops from repeated exposure to distressing situations over time. Examples: - Ongoing abuse (physical, emotional, or verbal) - Living in a war zone or violent environment - Long-term illness or suffering Deep Impact: - The body never fully returns to a state of rest - Stress hormones stay elevated - Person becomes conditioned to survive instead of live Internal Effects: - Constant tension - Emotional numbness or exhaustion - Difficulty trusting stability 3. COMPLEX TRAUMA (C-PTSD) This is repeated trauma, often relational, especially during formative years. Examples: - Childhood abuse or neglect - Growing up in a dysfunctional or unstable home - Repeated betrayal from caregivers Deep Impact: - Affects identity, not just memory - Distorts how someone sees themselves, others, and God - Creates deep-rooted survival patterns Internal Effects: - “Something is wrong with me” - Shame-based identity - Difficulty forming healthy relationships 4. CHILDHOOD TRAUMA (DEVELOPMENTAL TRAUMA) Trauma that occurs during key developmental stages of life. Examples: - Lack of affection or emotional connection - Abandonment or rejection - Being ignored, unseen, or invalidated Deep Impact: - Disrupts emotional and brain development - Impacts attachment styles (avoidant, anxious, disorganized) - Forms core beliefs early that carry into adulthood Internal Effects: - Fear of rejection - Deep need for validation - Struggles with identity and worth