Trauma Exposure and Symptom Presentations

Abstract

Trauma exposure refers to the experience of distressing or threatening events that can significantly impact an individual’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being across the lifespan. This chapter examines the concept of trauma exposure, its various forms, and the diverse symptom presentations observed in affected individuals, families, and communities. The relationship between trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is explored, highlighting how different populations respond to trauma based on resilience factors, social support, and coping mechanisms. While some individuals recover without lasting distress, others may develop acute or chronic symptoms, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and psychotic episodes. The discussion also includes global perspectives on trauma exposure, such as its conceptualization in the Philippines, where its physiological effects are emphasized. Finally, this chapter proposes a comprehensive care plan addressing the needs of trauma survivors at individual, familial, and community levels.