Trauma doesn’t just happen in our minds. It happens in our entire bodies. Whether it’s from a single overwhelming event or repeated exposure to distressing experiences, trauma changes how our brains and nervous systems function. These changes aren’t a sign of weakness; they’re the body’s way of trying to keep us safe. Understanding what’s happening can help people make sense of their symptoms and begin to heal with greater compassion for themselves.
The Brain’s Response to Danger
When something frightening or painful happens, the brain’s alarm system—the amygdala—goes into overdrive. It sends signals to the body to fight, flee, or freeze. At the same time, the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for logic and decision-making, goes temporarily offline. This makes sense in moments of danger; the brain prioritizes survival over thinking things through. But in people who have experienced trauma, the amygdala can stay on high alert long after the threat has passed, keeping them in a constant state of vigilance or anxiety.
Memory and Emotion
Trauma can disrupt how memories are stored. Normally, the hippocampus helps organize experiences into clear, time-stamped memories. Under extreme stress, though, the hippocampus may struggle to function properly. This can cause traumatic memories to feel fragmented or “stuck,” reappearing as flashbacks, nightmares, or intense emotional reactions. It’s why someone might feel suddenly panicked or sad without knowing why—because their body remembers what their conscious mind tries to forget.
The Body Keeps the Score
As psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk famously explained, “the body keeps the score.” Chronic stress from trauma floods the body with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, muscle tension, digestive issues, headaches, and even chronic pain. The nervous system can get “stuck” in survival mode, making it hard to relax or feel safe. Practices like deep breathing, grounding exercises, or gentle movement can help signal to the body that it’s no longer in danger.
There’s Hope for Healing
The good news is that the brain and body are capable of healing. Trauma-informed therapy, mindfulness, and supportive relationships can help rewire neural pathways and restore balance to the nervous system. Healing isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about helping your body and mind learn that no matter what has happened before, they’re safe now. With time, care, and support, it is possible to feel grounded, connected, and whole again.
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