When The Body Keeps The Score

Trauma is a psychological response to an event that is perceived as overwhelming and potentially life-threatening. Trauma responses can vary from person to person and can depend on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the trauma, the individual's prior experiences, and their support system.

There are several common trauma responses:

Fight: this is a physiological response that prepares the body to either fight towards the perceived threat. It can include an increase in heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, as well as a release of adrenaline and other stress hormones. A person experiences anger, aggression, and moves towards the perceived threat. 

Flight: this response occurs when anxiety and panic are present. A person will run away from the perceived threat. They may also struggle with constant rumination about the threat. 

Freeze: this is a response where the body becomes still or immobile in an attempt to avoid detection by the perceived threat. It can also be a way to protect oneself from further harm. A person may become dissociated or disconnected from reality to keep themself safe. 

Fawn: This occurs when a person abandons their needs in order to avoid conflict. This looks like people pleasing behaviors. A person may neglect their boundaries to appease others. Codependent behaviors can develop from this trauma response. 

Dissociation: this is a response where the individual feels disconnected from their body or their surroundings. It can include feelings of numbness, detachment, or disorientation.

Hyperarousal: this is a response where the individual feels constantly on edge or anxious. It can include symptoms such as irritability, difficulty sleeping, and an exaggerated startle response.

Emotional dysregulation: this is a response where the individual experiences intense and unpredictable emotions. It can include feelings of sadness, anger, or fear, and can lead to difficulty regulating these emotions.

Trauma is a unique individual experience. The way it impacts a person will vary. Trauma responses are normal responses to an abnormal situation. It's possible to work through them with the help of therapy, self-care, and support from loved ones.