Generally speaking, potentially traumatic events involve a major threat to one’s psychological and physical well-being. Potentially traumatic events may be life-threatening; to one’s own life or the life of a loved one. The impact of a potentially traumatic event may be related to the mental and physical health of the person, past traumatic experiences, the presence of coping skills, and the level of social and emotional support at the time of the potentially traumatic event.

 

Examples of events and situations that can lead to the development of psychological trauma may include:

• Natural disasters such as fires, earthquakes, tornados, and hurricanes

• Interpersonal violence like rape, child abuse, or the suicide of a loved one or friend

• Involvement in a severe car accident or workplace accident

• Acts of violence such as: armed robbery, war, or terrorism