Feeling the need to be busy all the time can sometimes be associated with trauma, but it is not necessarily a trauma response in all cases. The need to stay constantly busy could be driven by various factors and might have different underlying reasons for different individuals.
In some cases, trauma survivors may engage in hyperactivity or constant busyness as a way to avoid painful emotions or memories associated with their trauma. Staying occupied all the time can serve as a distraction and a coping mechanism to keep their mind away from distressing thoughts.
However, it's important to remember that not everyone who feels the need to be busy is necessarily experiencing trauma or trauma-related responses. The desire to stay busy can also be linked to other factors such as personality traits, perfectionism, societal expectations, or a fear of boredom.
If you or someone you know is experiencing this constant need to be busy and it is causing distress or interfering with daily functioning, it may be helpful to explore these feelings further with the assistance of a mental health professional. A therapist can provide support in understanding the underlying reasons and help develop healthier coping strategies if needed.