Retraumatization occurs when an individual is exposed to situations, reminders, or triggers that evoke the emotional, cognitive, or physiological responses of a past traumatic event. The re-experience can be as distressing as the original trauma.
Key Points:
- Common Triggers: Similar environments, people, sounds, or smells that recall the traumatic memory; invasive questioning or insensitive care in medical/legal settings.
- Impact: Heightened anxiety, flashbacks, dissociation, panic attacks, or avoidance behaviors.
- Prevention & Support: Trauma-informed care, safe environments, grounding techniques, and helping the person set boundaries or coping strategies.
- Therapeutic Work: Gradual exposure, cognitive restructuring, and establishing a strong sense of safety are integral to addressing retraumatization.
