Understanding Trauma's Effects on the Body and Overall Health
- Becs Steele
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Trauma leaves marks that go beyond memories. It shapes how the body and mind work together, influencing health in ways many people do not expect. Understanding this connection helps us recognise the deep impact trauma has and points to ways to heal more fully.
What Trauma Does to the Body and Mind
Trauma is a response to a distressing or disturbing event. It can be a single incident or ongoing experiences. When trauma occurs, the brain and body react to protect us, often by triggering the fight, flight, or freeze response. This reaction is natural but can cause lasting changes.
The nervous system becomes highly sensitive. The body stays on alert, even when danger is gone. This constant state of tension affects muscles, organs, and brain function. People may feel anxious, restless, or disconnected from their own bodies. There is some new research emerging that trauma is stored in the fascia.
Watch this YouTube video where I interview Dawn Wilcox, Psychotherapist & Councillor about the impact of trauma on the nervous system and what happens with the body and our thoughts.
How Trauma Changes Brain Function
Trauma affects areas of the brain responsible for memory, emotion, and decision-making. The amygdala, which processes fear, becomes overactive. The hippocampus, which helps store memories, can shrink. The prefrontal cortex, which controls reasoning, may weaken.
These changes make it harder to regulate emotions and respond calmly to stress. Trauma survivors often experience flashbacks, nightmares, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms show how deeply trauma rewires the brain.
The Body’s Response to Trauma
Trauma does not only affect the mind. The body holds onto trauma in physical ways. This is sometimes called the BodyMind connection, where emotional pain shows up as physical symptoms.
Common Physical Effects of Trauma
Muscle tension and chronic pain
Digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome
Headaches and migraines
Fatigue and sleep disturbances
Increased risk of heart disease and autoimmune disorders
For example, someone who experienced childhood trauma might develop chronic back pain or digestive issues without clear medical causes. These symptoms reflect how the body stores stress and trauma.
The Role of the Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary body functions like heartbeat and digestion. Trauma can cause this system to become imbalanced. The sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) may dominate, while the parasympathetic system (rest and digest) weakens.
This imbalance leads to ongoing stress responses, even in safe environments. Over time, this wears down the body’s ability to heal and maintain health.
How Trauma Affects Overall Health
The long-term effects of trauma on health are significant. Research shows trauma increases the risk of many chronic illnesses. This includes heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Dr Gabor Marte's book The Myth of Normal explores this in depth https://drgabormate.com/
Trauma and Immune System Function
Chronic stress from trauma can suppress the immune system. This makes the body less able to fight infections and heal wounds. It also increases inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases.
Mental Health and Trauma
Trauma is a major factor in conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. These conditions affect quality of life and can make managing physical health more difficult.
Healing the BodyMind Connection After Trauma
Healing trauma requires addressing both the mind and body. Traditional talk therapy helps process memories and emotions. However, because trauma is stored in the body, physical approaches are also important.
Effective Approaches to Healing
Somatic therapies: These focus on body awareness and releasing tension. Examples include somatic experiencing and sensorimotor psychotherapy.
Mindfulness and meditation: These practices help calm the nervous system and increase present-moment awareness.
Movement therapies: Yoga, tai chi, and gentle exercise support body-mind integration and reduce stress.
Breathwork: Controlled breathing techniques can regulate the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
Practical Steps for Individuals
Notice physical sensations during stress or emotional triggers.
Practice grounding techniques like feeling your feet on the floor or holding a comforting object.
Seek professional help that includes body-focused therapy.
Create a safe environment for healing with supportive relationships and routines.
The Importance of Recognising Trauma’s Impact
Ignoring trauma’s effects on the body and mind can lead to worsening health problems. Understanding this connection encourages a more compassionate approach to care. It also empowers individuals to take active steps toward healing.
Health professionals increasingly recognise the need to treat trauma holistically. This means combining mental health support with physical care to restore balance.
Moving Forward with Awareness and Care
Trauma shapes the BodyMind connection in profound ways. Its impact on health is real and measurable. By learning how trauma affects the brain, nervous system, and body, we can better support healing.
Rebecca Steele
registered Nutritionist and Somatic Coach
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