Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. It can be caused by physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological harm, and can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

Victimization is the process or experience of being harmed, exploited, or subjected to a criminal or abusive act. Victims may experience physical, emotional, or psychological trauma as a result of the victimization, and it can occur through various forms of abuse, crime, discrimination, or systemic violence.

PTSD is a mental health condition that can occur after an individual has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and emotional numbness. PTSD affects an individual’s ability to function in daily life and can lead to long-term emotional distress.

TIC is an approach to service provision that acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma and recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in individuals. TIC emphasizes creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can heal at their own pace, without retraumatization, and encourages providers to respond with understanding and compassion.

Resilience refers to an individual’s ability to bounce back or adapt to adversity, trauma, or significant stress. It is the process of overcoming the negative impact of trauma and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Resilience is not the absence of trauma but the capacity to recover and thrive despite it.

Re-traumatization occurs when an individual experiences further harm or distress due to a situation, environment, or interaction that triggers past traumatic memories. This can happen intentionally or unintentionally, and it is particularly harmful when the person is not prepared or supported to handle the triggered emotions.

Vicarious trauma refers to the emotional, physical, or psychological toll that professionals or helpers may experience as a result of working with individuals who have been traumatized. Helpers, such as social workers, healthcare providers, and counselors, may develop symptoms similar to PTSD due to their exposure to the suffering of others.

The healing journey is the process by which individuals who have experienced trauma move from pain and distress toward recovery and growth. Healing is not linear, and individuals may experience setbacks, but the journey involves processing emotions, developing new coping mechanisms, and ultimately finding meaning and peace.

Empowerment in the context of trauma recovery refers to helping individuals regain a sense of control over their lives, decisions, and healing process. It involves increasing self-awareness, building self-esteem, and giving individuals the tools they need to overcome trauma and lead fulfilling lives.

A survivor is an individual who has experienced trauma and has overcome the immediate effects. Unlike the term “victim,” which can imply powerlessness, “survivor” emphasizes the strength, resilience, and ongoing journey of an individual as they move forward in their life, empowered by their experiences.