What Are Signs of Unresolved Trauma in Adults?

Unresolved trauma in adults can show up as ongoing emotional distress, relationship difficulties, or physical symptoms long after a stressful or traumatic experience has passed. These reactions often persist even when life feels relatively stable.

Common Emotional and Behavioral Signs:

•Heightened anxiety or emotional numbness

•Irritability, anger, or sudden mood shifts

•Avoidance of people, places, or memories

•Feeling “on edge” or easily overwhelmed

Relationship and Daily Life Clues:

•Difficulty trusting others

•Repeated conflict or emotional withdrawal

•Trouble relaxing or feeling safe

•Feeling stuck in the past despite wanting to move forward

Physical and Somatic Symptoms

•Sleep problems or chronic fatigue

•Headaches, stomach issues, or tension

•Strong reactions to stress that feel out of proportion

Trauma Doesn’t Always Come From One Event

Trauma can result from a single incident or from repeated experiences over time, such as chronic stress, neglect, or emotionally unsafe relationships. Not all trauma is obvious or dramatic.

When Therapy Can Help

If these patterns feel persistent or interfere with your quality of life, trauma-informed therapy can help your nervous system process what hasn’t fully resolved yet.

In Greensburg and across Pennsylvania, trauma therapy with Caring Conversations Therapeutic Services can support healing at your own pace.