Definition

Stress is the body’s natural response to any tension or pressure either physical, emotional, or psychological. It can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic), and while normal in small amounts it can lead to physical or mental growth, persistent stress can negatively affect physical and mental hea

Trauma, is an emotional response to deeply distressing or life-threatening events such as accidents, violence, abuse, or loss. It affects a person’s capacity to cope and often leads to debilitating psychological effects.

Causes

Common Causes of Stress

  • Work pressure or Career insecurity
  • Academic pressure
  • Financial un-manageability
  • Relationship issues
  • Health issues
  • Major life changes (geographical changes, loss of relationships, childbirth)

 

Common Causes of Trauma

  • Physical, mental, or sexual abuse
  • Accidents or natural disasters
  • Exposure to violence
  • Death of a loved ones
  • Childhood neglect

Symptoms

Symptoms of Stress

  • Headaches or back aches
  • Irritability, restlessness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in Sleep Patterns
  • Fatigue
  • Changes in appetite

Symptoms of Trauma

  • Intrusive memories and flashbacks
  • Avoiding people, places and events
  • Feeling emotionally numb
  • Hypervigilance
  • Nightmares
  • Persistent fear or guilt

Diagnosis

Stress itself is not a clinical diagnosis, but a professional may evaluate its severity and impact on functioning.

Trauma-related conditions, however, can be clinically diagnosed—most commonly:

  • Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Diagnosis involves:

  • A detailed clinical interview
  • Assessment tools like the PCL-5, CAPS-5, or stress scales
  • Evaluating physical symptoms, emotional responses, and behavioural patterns

Treatment

Psychotherapy

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
  • Somatic Therapies

Medication

  • Medications may be prescribed by a psychiatrist.
  • Sleep aids may be suggested short-term under supervision.

Lifestyle Interventions

  • Regular exercise
  • Yoga and Pranayam
  • Healthy sleep routines
  • Nutritious diet
  • Abstinence from alcohol and substances

Support Systems

  • Support groups
  • Family involvement
  • Psychoeducation

Living With Stress and Trauma

  • Developing routines for stability
  • Meditation and spiritual practices
  • Engaging in art, music, hobbies
  • Journaling emotions
  • Setting healthy boundaries
  • Seeking social support
  • Celebrating progress

Suggestions for Caregivers

  • Listen without judgment
  • Offer mature and consistent support
  • Encourage professional help
  • Assist with tasks during emotional distress
  • Watch for warning signs: self-harm, extreme behaviour, substance abuse
  • Maintain your own self-care

FAQs

Are stress and trauma the same?

No. Stress is a response to everyday demands; trauma is a reaction to deeply disturbing events.

Varies widely. Early intervention helps.

Chronic stress can mimic trauma symptoms, but trauma usually follows a specific event.

No.

If symptoms interfere with functioning, trauma-focused therapy is effective.

Yes

Yes. With therapy and coping strategies, people can fully recover.