Trauma Changes the Brain

When we say that the body keeps the score, or that trauma lives on in our bodies, this is quite literally true.

Experiencing trauma or chronic stress, can lead to structural changes in the brain. Here are some of those changes.

Weakening of the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with issues  with emotional regulation and decision-making.

Reduction of hippocampal functioning, negatively impacting our ability to learn and our short-term memory.

Increased amygdala activity, which is associated with exaggerated fear responses and difficulty discerning danger versus safety.

I share this so that you can have some understanding and compassion for yourself and your responses.

AND

It’s just as important to know that these changes do not have to be permanent and they can absolutely be reversed or improved by learning and practicing skills such as grounding, breath work, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness, and breath work. Therapy such as EMDR reprocessing an also lead to positive changes in the brain.

I am passionate about helping people let go of the pain of their past, live more fully in the present and develop hope for the future. I am also passionate about helping other clinicians work with complex trauma and dissociation. To learn more about me and my practice, click the link in my bio.

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