Trauma is a complex psychological response to distressing experiences that overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. Despite increased awareness, many myths and misunderstandings about trauma persist. These misconceptions can create stigma, discourage people from seeking help, and undermine recovery. In this article, we address 10 common misunderstandings about trauma and clarify what the research and clinical experience tell us.
1. Trauma is only caused by major, life-threatening events
A common misconception is that trauma only results from events such as war, assault, or natural disasters. While these are recognised as potentially traumatic, trauma can also arise from less immediately life-threatening but deeply distressing experiences. Emotional abuse, neglect, bullying, medical procedures, and complicated grief can also lead to trauma responses, especially when they occur repeatedly or during vulnerable developmental periods. The individual’s subjective experience – not just the objective event – determines whether an experience is traumatic.
2. If it didn’t happen to you directly, it’s not trauma
Trauma does not need to be experienced firsthand to have a psychological impact. Vicarious trauma, also known as secondary traumatic stress, can occur when a person is exposed to others’ traumatic experiences, such as through caregiving, therapy, emergency services, or even media coverage. Additionally, witnessing a traumatic event, especially involving a loved one, can result in symptoms similar to those experienced by direct survivors. This is particularly relevant in professions where people are regularly exposed to others’ suffering.
3. People with trauma should just move on or forget about it
This belief reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of how trauma affects the brain and body. Trauma is not simply remembered like an ordinary memory – it can become “stuck” in the nervous system. Unprocessed trauma can trigger ongoing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, or emotional numbness. These are not signs of weakness or unwillingness to let go, but of the brain’s ongoing attempts to process an overwhelming event. Effective trauma treatment helps the brain and body complete this process so the person can feel safe again.
4. Only people with PTSD have trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one possible outcome of trauma, but it is not the only one. Many individuals who have experienced trauma do not meet full criteria for PTSD yet still struggle with trauma-related difficulties. These may include chronic anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, dissociation, or issues with trust and self-worth. The impacts of trauma can vary widely depending on the type, duration, and timing of the experience, as well as individual factors like support systems and pre-existing mental health.
5. Childhood trauma doesn’t affect adults
The evidence clearly shows that early-life trauma, particularly if it is chronic or relational, can have enduring effects on development, attachment, and psychological functioning. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been linked to a wide range of adult difficulties, including mood disorders, substance use, relationship issues, and physical health problems. Unresolved childhood trauma may influence adult behaviour in ways that aren’t always recognised as trauma-related, such as emotional reactivity, avoidance of intimacy, or self-criticism.
6. Talking about trauma always makes it worse
While it’s true that prematurely revisiting traumatic events in therapy can be destabilising, avoiding the topic altogether can also impede healing. A trauma-informed approach ensures that individuals are emotionally prepared before engaging in any form of trauma processing. Modern trauma therapies aim to establish safety and regulation first. When therapy is appropriately paced, speaking about trauma can reduce distress, foster insight, and support recovery. Clinicians use evidence-based strategies to help clients approach trauma gradually and safely.
7. People who experienced trauma always know it
Many people are unaware that their current difficulties stem from trauma, particularly when it occurred in childhood or was emotional rather than physical. Clients may seek therapy for anxiety, depression, or relationship issues without recognising the underlying impact of past experiences. Symptoms of trauma can become so normalised that individuals do not connect them to earlier events. Therapy can help uncover these patterns, increasing self-understanding and opening a path to healing.
8. Trauma means you’re permanently damaged
Trauma can have significant psychological effects, but it does not mean a person is irreparably harmed. The human brain and nervous system are capable of change – a principle known as neuroplasticity. With the right support, many people recover from trauma and go on to live fulfilling lives. Some even experience post-traumatic growth, developing new strengths or deeper relationships as a result of what they’ve endured. Healing takes time, but it is possible.
9. Everyone who experiences trauma responds the same way
There is no single or “correct” response to trauma. Some people experience intrusive memories and hypervigilance, while others may feel emotionally numb or dissociate. Cultural background, genetics, attachment history, personality, and social support all influence how trauma is experienced and expressed. Trauma responses are adaptations – attempts by the brain and body to protect the individual. Recognising this diversity is crucial to providing effective, individualised care.
10. If you seem fine, you must be over it
Trauma often goes unseen. Many individuals continue to function well externally – working, parenting, and maintaining relationships – while struggling internally with intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or shame. This is sometimes referred to as “high-functioning trauma.” People may use perfectionism, overwork, or emotional detachment as coping strategies. Just because someone appears composed does not mean they are unaffected. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these hidden struggles and begin the healing process.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the realities of trauma is a critical step toward compassionate care and effective recovery. At MyLife Psychologists, our team offers evidence-based therapies tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether your trauma stems from a single event or a complex history, healing is possible – with the right support and a trauma-informed approach.
If you’re unsure whether therapy could help you, we invite you to book a free 15-minute call with our Care Coordinator. You’ll be matched with a clinical psychologist who understands trauma and can help you feel safe and supported.
References
Australian Psychological Society (2019). Trauma and Psychology. https://psychology.org.au/for-the-public/psychology-topics/trauma
Phoenix Australia. (2023). Understanding Trauma. https://www.phoenixaustralia.org/resources/understanding-trauma/
van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. New York: Viking.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach. https://ncsacw.samhsa.gov/userfiles/files/SAMHSA_Trauma.pdf
Blue Knot Foundation. (2022). Understanding Complex Trauma, Dissociation, and Recovery. https://www.blueknot.org.au
Courtois, C. A., & Ford, J. D. (Eds.). (2009). Treating Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders: An Evidence-Based Guide. New York: Guilford Press.
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2020). Family, domestic and sexual violence in Australia: continuing the national story. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/domestic-violence/family-domestic-sexual-violence-australia-2019/contents/summary
Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—from Domestic Abuse to Political Terror. New York: Basic Books.
Resources
Blue Knot Helpline and Redress Support Service: https://blueknot.org.au
Beyond Blue – Support for Mental Health: https://www.beyondblue.org.au
Phoenix Australia Trauma & Mental Health Resources: https://www.phoenixaustralia.org
MindSpot Trauma Course (Free Online Program): https://www.mindspot.org.au
1800RESPECT – National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: https://www.1800respect.org.au
