Trauma, as described by the American
Psychological Association, is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or natural disaster. As a result, our brain shifts into a “survival mode” to cope with this trauma; this can often change the way one thinks and perceives about the world. For example, a person may receive flashbacks of the incident, or may feel intense sadness, intrusive thoughts, or harm themselves to name a few. When we experience a traumatic incident, our brain changes itself and don’t function like they normally do.
Trauma affects several parts of the brain, making it difficult to overcome. The main three parts that are affected by trauma are hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex. The amygdala is our emotional and instinctual center. It’s major role also includes detecting fear by gathering information around us such as light, sense etc. On the other hand, the hippocampus is part of the limbic system in the brain. It is mostly responsible for storing and retrieving memories, while also differentiating between past and present experiences. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for regulating our emotions and impulses. These three parts of the brain are responsible for stress management as well.
When a traumatic experience is recalled, the hippocampus may be physically affected; studies have shown that in people suffering from PTSD, the volume of their hippocampus may be smaller than others. This hinders the ability of trauma survivors to recall their own memories or induce a flashbulb memory, causing them to remember certain experiences very highly and vividly. Moreover, the amygdala becomes hyperactive, and it goes into overdrive, acting just as it would if you were experiencing that trauma for the first time.The prefrontal cortex also becomes suppressed, leading to less capability of controlling fear. In essence, one can be stuck in a purely reactive state.These three brain parts together can make a trauma survivor constantly fearful. This is because the victim cannot differentiate their past trauma and the present situation. The fight-or-flight response is then activated due to the brain’s perception of a threat.
However, it is important to note that these changes can also be reversed. We can rewire our brain to reverse this effect by a process called neuroplasticity: the brain’s ability to make or break existing synaptic connections. During the healing process, it is possible to rewire and retrain our brain to reverse the effects of trauma. Reinforces the prefrontal cortex can get back rationality and control. The hippocampus can be strengthened which helps make our memories stronger and work how it’s supposed to. Subduing the hyperactive amygdala also makes one more peaceful. It is important to receive the necessary medications and therapy to overcome trauma as well. Doctors prescribe medications that affect neurotransmitters such as serotonin to help balance the chemicals in our brain. This along with therapy, can help recover survivors from their trauma.
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2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557
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