Irtauma

Irtauma is a Finnish term that translates to "trauma" or "shock" in English. It refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have a significant and lasting psychological impact on an individual. This experience can be a single event or a series of events that overwhelm a person's ability to cope.

The impact of irtauma can manifest in various ways, including emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms. Emotionally, individuals might experience fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, or numbness. Cognitively, difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making can arise. Physically, symptoms such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, and increased heart rate are common.

While the term is often associated with severe events like accidents, violence, or natural disasters, irtauma can also stem from less dramatic but still deeply impactful experiences, such as betrayal, loss, or prolonged stress. The subjective experience of the individual is key; what constitutes irtauma for one person may not for another.

In Finnish culture, the concept of irtauma acknowledges the profound ways in which traumatic events can alter an individual's perception of themselves, others, and the world. Understanding and addressing irtauma often involves seeking support and professional help to process the experience and mitigate its long-term effects.