Trauma leaves more than just emotional scars. It reshapes how the brain and body function, often long after the threat has passed. Whether the trauma stems from a single overwhelming event or prolonged exposure to distress, its effects can be deeply embedded in both your nervous system and physical health. Understanding how trauma alters the brain and body can provide clarity and offer a path forward for those seeking healing.
The Brain's Response to Trauma
When you experience trauma, your brain goes into survival mode. The amygdala, the brain's alarm system, becomes hyperactive, constantly scanning for danger. At the same time, the prefrontal cortex — responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation — can become less active, making it difficult to think clearly or manage intense emotions.
The hippocampus, which helps process and store memories, may also be affected. In some cases, traumatic memories are stored in a fragmented or disorganized way, leading to flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional reactions triggered by seemingly unrelated events. These changes in brain function are your mind's way of trying to protect you, but they can create lasting distress if left untreated.
The Body Keeps the Score
Trauma doesn't just affect the mind—it impacts the entire body. When the nervous system remains in a heightened state of alert (often called "fight, flight, or freeze"), it can lead to chronic physical symptoms. These may include:
- Muscle tension or chronic pain
- Digestive issues
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue or low energy
- Heart palpitations
- Hormonal imbalances
The body's stress response system, especially the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, can become overactive or dysregulated, affecting everything from immune function to mood stability. Even long after the traumatic event has ended, the body may continue reacting as if the threat is still present.
Healing the Brain and Body After Trauma
The good news is that trauma recovery is possible. With the right support, your brain and body can begin to heal and regain balance. Therapeutic approaches like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based therapies can help rewire the brain's response to trauma and regulate the nervous system.
These therapies don’t just address thoughts and emotions. They also help release stored physical tension, calm the stress response, and build a sense of safety and self-trust. Healing takes time, but with the right tools and guidance, it's absolutely within reach.
Trauma-Informed Therapy with Jennifer Bearden, LCSW
Jennifer Bearden, LCSW, offers trauma-informed therapy to individuals in Oregon and California through secure telehealth sessions. With over 24 years of experience and advanced training in EMDR and IFS, Jennifer helps clients understand how trauma has impacted their lives and supports them in moving toward greater peace and resilience.
If you're ready to explore a new path to healing, contact Jennifer today to schedule a consultation. You don’t have to carry the weight of trauma alone — support is available.