May We Never Forget: Honoring Trauma Survivors and Uncovering Hidden Wounds

Every May, hearts across the nation pause to recognize something that often goes unseen: the silent battles people face after trauma. May is National Trauma Awareness Month, and May 21st marks National Trauma Survivors Day—a time to honor those who’ve endured pain, fear, and loss, and are still finding the courage to heal.

And while many organizations focus on physical trauma, emotional and psychological trauma continue to fly under the radar—affecting millions without ever being named.

A study by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing revealed that nearly 70% of U.S. adults—that’s over 220 million people—have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. The truth? You know someone who is carrying trauma right now. It might be your friend. Your coworker. Your spouse. Or even you.

This is not just a topic for therapists or faith leaders. It’s a call for all of us to pay attention, speak up, and be a safe place for healing.

This blog kicks off our five-part series for Trauma Awareness Month. Each week, we’ll explore how to recognize and support people dealing with trauma in different areas of life—from childhood wounds to workplace stress to struggles in marriage and spirituality. It all starts here—with understanding.

What Is Trauma, Really?

Trauma isn’t just what happens to a person—it’s what happens inside them as a result.

It can be an overwhelming experience that breaks your sense of safety and leaves you feeling helpless, stuck, or in survival mode. Trauma changes how the brain processes emotion, memory, and even relationships. And the effects often linger long after the event itself.

Here’s the thing: trauma isn’t always dramatic or headline-worthy. Sometimes, it’s quiet. It builds over time. It hides behind a smile. That’s why so many people never realize they’re struggling with trauma—or that they know someone who is.

Some common signs of trauma include:

• Irritability or mood swings

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

• Withdrawal from relationships

• Overreaction to stress or triggers

• Persistent anxiety or fear

• Feeling emotionally numb

  
  

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward helping someone feel seen—and safe.

Psalm 147:3 reminds us, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” God sees every hidden scar, and He draws near to heal, not to shame.

Understanding the Different Types of Trauma

Trauma can look very different depending on a person’s background and experiences. To support someone well, we need to recognize the many types of trauma that exist:

• Acute Trauma: Triggered by a single event—like an accident, assault, or loss—acute trauma can lead to flashbacks, panic, or emotional shock.

• Chronic Trauma : This develops over time from repeated exposure to stressful or abusive environments. It’s common in situations involving long-term neglect, bullying, or domestic violence.

• Complex Trauma: Often rooted in childhood, complex trauma comes from multiple traumatic events, especially when caused by trusted individuals. It deeply impacts identity, self-worth, and trust in others.

• Secondary (or Vicarious) Trauma: Caregivers, counselors, and even close friends can absorb others' pain over time. This often goes unnoticed but can lead to burnout or compassion fatigue.

• Spiritual or Religious Trauma: When someone is hurt in a faith setting—through judgment, exclusion, or abuse—it can sever their relationship not just with people, but with God. Rebuilding that trust is part of healing, too.

  
  

Understanding these types helps us respond to others with compassion instead of confusion.

Why We Must All Care About Trauma Support

We live in a world where trauma is not rare. And that means emotional healing isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a community responsibility.

Too often, people try to cope alone. They stay silent because they fear being judged, dismissed, or misunderstood. But healing begins when someone says, “I see you. You matter. And you're not alone.”

You don’t need to be a professional to support someone in trauma recovery. You just need to be:

• Present: Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is show up and stay.

• Patient: Healing isn’t linear. There are setbacks and progress. Be a steady friend.

• Open: Let people share without trying to “fix” them or offer quick solutions.

• Informed: Learn what trauma is so your words uplift, not unintentionally wound. For example, say “I’m here for you” instead of “You should be over this by now.

How Faith and Mental Health Work Together

There’s a common myth that faith and therapy are in conflict—but the truth is, God often works through both. Scripture is full of stories where healing came through process, through community, and through divine guidance.

Jesus didn’t dismiss pain. He entered it. He wept with His friends. He touched the outcasts. He stayed close to the broken.

In fact, Galatians 6:2 calls us to “carry each other’s burdens,” a beautiful reminder that community care is part of God’s design. If someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of trauma—or if you are—it’s not unfaithful to seek help. It's wise. It’s courageous. It’s biblical.

That’s why services like Christian counseling are so vital. They allow people to process trauma in a safe space, guided by both clinical expertise and spiritual sensitivity. At Faith on the Journey, our licensed counselors help individuals explore the impact of their trauma while rediscovering God’s presence and peace.

If you're looking for support, or wondering how to help someone else, don’t wait for things to get worse. Healing is available. And it starts with reaching out.

Conclusion: Let the Healing Begin

Trauma doesn’t have the final word. Healing is possible—when we’re willing to acknowledge the pain, show up for others, and seek the support we need.

As we journey through this month together, let’s make a commitment: to listen more, judge less, and create a world where people don’t have to hide their wounds.

This is just the beginning of our journey together. In the coming weeks, we’ll uncover the many faces of trauma—how it hides in our past, shows up at work, affects our most intimate relationships, and even reshapes our faith. Each blog will give you the tools and insights to become a source of light and strength for someone navigating trauma.

So stay tuned, stay open, and most of all—stay present. Because when the wounds speak, healing begins with someone who’s willing to listen.