Understanding Trauma: The Difference Between Big T and Small t trauma

As a psychologist, I’ve worked with numerous clients who have experienced trauma in various forms. While trauma is often associated with catastrophic events, it’s essential to recognize that smaller, more subtle experiences can also have a profound impact on an individual’s life. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between Big T trauma and small t trauma, and how they can affect adults.

Big T Trauma

Big T trauma refers to severe, life-threatening experiences that cause intense fear, helplessness, or horror. Examples include:

• Natural disasters
• Sexual assault
• Combat
• Severe physical abuse
• Life-threatening accidents.

These events can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, or other severe mental health conditions.

Small t Trauma

Small t trauma, on the other hand, encompasses less dramatic but still impactful experiences that can erode a person’s sense of safety, trust, and self-worth. Examples include:

• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Bullying and harassment
• Microaggressions
• Chronic stress.

While small t trauma may not be as immediately debilitating as Big T trauma, it can still have a profound impact on an individual’s mental health and well-being.

Impact on Adults

Both Big T and small t trauma can affect adults in various ways, including:

• Anxiety and depression
• Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships
• Hypervigilance or avoidance behaviours
• Self-blame and shame
• Physical symptoms like chronic pain or fatigue.

However, small t trauma can be particularly insidious, as it may not be immediately recognized as traumatic. Adults who experienced small t trauma may struggle with: Feeling “not good enough” or “unworthy”, Difficulty setting boundaries, People-pleasing or codependency, Self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

Healing and Recovery

The good news is that both Big T and small t trauma can be healed with appropriate support and therapy. As a psychologist, I work with clients to:

• Process and integrate traumatic experiences
• Develop coping skills and self-care strategies
• Rebuild self-esteem and self-worth
• Foster healthy relationships and boundaries.

Remember, trauma is not a definition of a person’s worth or identity. With compassion, support, and therapy, individuals can heal and reclaim their lives.