Common Reactions To Trauma Worksheet

Experiencing a traumatic event is a challenging experience. It can cause our bodies and minds to react in a number of different ways. Reactions to trauma can be obvious, like shock and fear, but there are other reactions that may not be so obvious.

People who have suffered trauma may be reacting to their trauma in ways they may not realize. Trauma can affect a person’s sense of safety, hopefulness for the future, and trust in others. This can result in symptoms and behaviors that may not seem like they are linked to trauma, but have surfaced or worsened in reaction to a traumatic event.

About This Worksheet

This is the Common Reactions To Trauma worksheet. This worksheet provides a checklist of common reactions and symptoms a person may develop after dealing with a traumatic event. It is a tool that can help a person who is processing trauma understand how their traumatic event has affected them.

This worksheet can be helpful for adolescents and adults who have suffered from a traumatic event. It can help people who are not understanding how their trauma has impacted them, or people who are minimizing the seriousness of their condition. This checklist can serve as an educational tool and visual aid for how someone has been affected by a traumatic event.

Instructions

Before presenting this worksheet, provide an education about common physical, mental and emotional reactions to trauma. Outline possible behavior changes that can occur, along with the mental health effects of losing a sense of safety and security. When your client is ready, present the Common Reactions To Trauma worksheet for them to review.

Instruct the client to place a checkmark next to each symptom they experience. When the client is done, review the results with them and relate the symptoms to their trauma. Allow the client time to process the findings on the checklist and open the discussion for conversation.

Download Common Reactions To Trauma Worksheet