Are You Experiencing ‘Trauma’ Or Just Stress? A Psychologist Answers

Forbes - May 8th, 2025
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The concept of trauma has become widespread in everyday language, often leading to misunderstandings about what constitutes true psychological trauma versus temporary stress or difficult life phases. This article explores the distinction between trauma and tough experiences, emphasizing the body's role in signaling unresolved trauma through persistent symptoms such as chronic pain or emotional numbness. Key indicators of trauma include a dysregulated nervous system and unexplained physical symptoms that do not subside even after the stressful situation has ended. This awareness allows individuals to seek appropriate therapy and support to heal effectively.

The misuse and overgeneralization of clinical terms like 'trauma' and 'triggered' in social media can trivialize real trauma's impact, potentially leading individuals to mislabel their experiences. Recognizing the difference between temporary stress and trauma is crucial for seeking the right kind of help. Trauma-informed therapy and mind-body approaches are recommended for those whose symptoms persist beyond the resolution of the initial stressor, allowing them to achieve a state of safety and ease. This understanding is essential for intentional healing and regaining mental clarity.

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RATING

6.0
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a clear and timely discussion on the distinctions between trauma and stress, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these differences for effective mental health support. Its strengths lie in its clarity, public interest, and relevance to ongoing mental health conversations. However, the article could benefit from improved accuracy and transparency through the inclusion of specific references and expert insights. While the topic is of significant public interest, the lack of detailed evidence and varied perspectives limits its potential impact and engagement. Overall, the article serves as a useful introduction to the topic, but further exploration and substantiation are needed to enhance its credibility and influence.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article provides a generally accurate overview of the distinctions between trauma and stress, emphasizing the physiological and psychological impacts of trauma. It accurately conveys that trauma can have lasting effects on the autonomic nervous system and mentions a 2017 study linking PTSD symptom severity to reduced Heart Rate Variability (HRV). However, the article lacks specific citations or references to these studies, which would enhance its factual accuracy and verifiability. Additionally, while the claims about functional somatic syndromes and trauma are supported by existing research, the article does not provide detailed evidence or references to substantiate these points, leaving some claims less verifiable.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the physiological and psychological aspects of trauma, presenting a single perspective on the issue. While it acknowledges the overuse of clinical terms on social media, it doesn't delve deeply into differing viewpoints or the broader societal implications of this trend. There is a lack of exploration of alternative perspectives, such as cultural or socio-economic factors that might influence one's experience of trauma or stress. This narrow focus limits the article's balance, as it doesn't fully consider other relevant dimensions or expert opinions that could provide a more rounded view.

8
Clarity

The article is written in clear and accessible language, making it easy for readers to understand the complex concepts of trauma and stress. The structure is logical, with a progression from defining trauma and stress to discussing signs and symptoms, and finally addressing healing approaches. The tone is neutral and informative, which aids in comprehension. However, the article could benefit from clearer explanations of the scientific terms and concepts, such as Heart Rate Variability, to ensure all readers can grasp the full scope of the discussion.

5
Source quality

The article does not cite specific sources or studies, which impacts the perceived quality and reliability of the information presented. While it discusses findings from a 2017 study and mentions research on functional somatic syndromes, the lack of direct references or links to these studies reduces the authority and credibility of the claims. Including expert opinions or interviews with mental health professionals could have strengthened the article's source quality by providing authoritative insights and context.

4
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of disclosing the sources of its claims and the methodology behind the presented information. It does not provide a clear basis for the claims about trauma and stress differentiation, nor does it explain the research or studies mentioned in detail. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for readers to assess the validity of the information or understand the potential biases that might influence the article's conclusions. Providing more context and clarity about the sources and research would improve transparency.

Sources

  1. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/articles/article-pdf/id1636980.pdf
  2. https://www.guilford.com/books/Effective-Treatments-for-PTSD/Forbes-Bisson-Monson-Berliner/9781462543564
  3. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jts.23091