Personal Resource Guide to Stages of Reactions to Traumatic Events

Please use this information as a resource guide for understanding a person's natural reactions to traumatic events. We recognize that reactions are highly individual in our initial responses to trauma and in the subsequent recovery process.

The following information is provided to you courtesy of Dr. Isaiah Zimmerman, PhD, P.C. Please contact him directly for further information:

Isaiah Zimmerman, PhD, P.C.
3106 Chain Bridge Rd., NW
Washington, D.C. 20016-3412
Phone: (202) 363-8656
E-mail: imzimm@aol.com

Stages of Reactions to Trauma

I. First Stage Reactions

  • Panic/Loss of Control
  • Feeling Unreal
  • Unable to Recognize Persons/Place
  • Denial of Injury
  • Flee/Escape
  • Loss of Bowel/Bladder Control
  • Assaultiveness
  • No Recall of Recent Stress
  • Severe Agitation

II. Second Stage Reactions

  • Hyper vigilance/Jumpiness
  • Flashbacks
  • Sleep Disturbances
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Low Energy/Appetite
  • Tremors/Tics
  • Obsession with Causality/Purpose
  • Tears/Grief
  • Early Anger
  • Difficulty Concentrating

III. Third Stage Reactions

  • Re-interpretation of Events
  • Desire for Revenge/Justice
  • Less Anxiety/Flashbacks
  • Moderate Depression
  • Energy to Recover/Rebuild
  • Integration with Political Views
  • Rise in Bonding/Patriotism
  • Free Ranging Anger
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