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The symptoms of trauma vary widely. Many trauma survivors report intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, or hypervigilance. Others may experience emotional numbness, anxiety, depression, or a disconnection from reality — common features of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Early life trauma is especially damaging because the brain is still developing; it can impair the formation of trust, emotional regulation, and a stable sense of self. Adults who experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) may adopt coping mechanisms such as emotional avoidance, hyper-independence, perfectionism, or people-pleasing, which once served to protect them but now hinder healthy functioning.
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