Small T traumas are not threatening to one’s bodily safety or life, however they can still cause painful symptoms that are disruptive to daily functioning if not processed fully. I have often seen anxiety, depression and grief present as symptoms from unresolved trauma. Change which bring transitions like moving a home or a job, relationship stress in events such as divorce or infidelity, financial stress, medical procedures, and loss represent little T traumas to name a few.
Big T traumas bring severe distress and helplessness. They may be a one time event like 9-11, or a school shooting and these do threaten one’s bodily safety. Physical assault, a violent attack, war, child abuse, domestic violence, and natural catastrophes are some examples. Trauma diminishes one’s sense of self and robs one of the vitality of living. Not healing trauma shuts one off from their ability to relate fully, to be vulnerable and to feel.