Updated 4/18/25
Trauma and mental health share a prevalent link and are known to be the underlying trigger for multiple substance use disorders. Trauma can be divided into two major categories: catastrophic events such as physical abuse or injury, sexual assault or a natural disaster or repetitive emotionally painful experiences such as child neglect, bullying, verbal abuse or the loss of a parent. Many think of trauma as the former however the latter can result in indefinite emotional scars leading to eating disorders and other mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety.
Warning signs associated with trauma and mental health:
- Nightmares
- Trouble sleeping
- Negative thought patterns
- Strain on relationships
- Social isolation/withdrawal
- Avoiding certain situations due to fear
- Living with constant stress/fear
- Anxiety
- Mood fluctuations
- Changes in appetite
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that involves severe anxiety, fear, flashbacks and negative thoughts and/or actions after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic life-threatening event. It is often thought by general society that this mental health disorder affects only veterans after returning from war but this is a preconceived misconception. Although many veterans may have PTSD, this diagnosis can affect anyone who undergoes a traumatic experience such as firefighters, police officers, plane crash victims and more.
Trauma and Mental Health Disorders
PTSD is not the only recognized mental health disorder associated with a traumatic experience. In fact, the majority of mental health disorders most likely have a component of past trauma. Therefore, it is important to recognize and treat trauma in order to avoid developing a mental health or substance use disorder. Of course, trauma is not the only trigger for developing a mental health disorder, as there are many other causes that may contribute. The following are mental health disorders that are associated with trauma:
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Oppositional defiant disorder
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Phobias
- Complicated grief
- Body dysmorphic disorder
- Dissociative disorders
- Panic attacks
- Schizophrenia
If you or someone you know is struggling to overcome trauma and a mental health disorder, contact Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program today to finally get help.