Traumatic events have the power to alter the course of our life. Traumatic stress not only hurts physically, emotionally, and psychologically, but it also has an impact on how we relate to others, deal with problems every day, and view the world. Many have subsequently questioned whether traumatic stress may alter the brain.
Even though the brain is extremely complicated, one of its main jobs is to keep us safe. Our brain turns experiences into memories as we move through life so that we can give higher priority to activities that produce positive outcomes and steer clear of those that do not. Our brains work extra hard to keep us safe after tragedy. Long after the threat or traumatic experience has passed, the brain continues to alert us of the present danger based on negative patterns of the past. The way the brain functions is altered by this response.
The reptile, mammalian, and neomammalian brains can be distinguished from each other, according to famous neurologist Dr. Paul MacLean. According to the triune brain model, the brain's several regions each perform a certain task. Our survival instincts are housed in the reptilian brain, which also controls autonomic bodily functions like breathing, hunger, and thirst. The mammalian brain controls our attachment style and aids in the processing of emotions like joy and fear. The processing of sensory information, learning, memory, making decisions, and solving complicated problems are all functions of the neomammalian brain.
The sympathetic nervous system and the mammalian brain are activated when we suffer trauma, and all non-essential processes are shut down by the brain. The brain generates stress hormones and engages the flight or fight response to help us survive the trauma.
The parasympathetic nervous system reactivates as the threat fades, and all three areas of the brain begin to operate once more. Traumatic stress, according to research, can obstruct this procedure by keeping the brain in "survival mode."
Traumatic stress can alter the brain in such a way that normal life can seem difficult. When the amygdala is overactive, the hippocampus is shrinking, and the prefrontal cortex is less active, these factors can lead to:
Anxiety
Insomnia
Irritability
Flashbacks
Memory problems
inadequate focus
Decision-making challenges
Fatigue may also result from traumatic stress. We may experience emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion when the brain expends a significant amount of energy trying to defend us from perceived threats. When you're in this mindset, taking care of yourself and your everyday obligations can seem like a chore. Relationships can be hard when you have a brain that is constantly on alert. When we feel threatened, suspicious, or fearful all the time, we may not be able to effectively read other people's thoughts and feelings. Some of our most essential relationships may suffer as a result of communication issues. Still, there is hope. Treatment plans that emphasize the brain can aid in mental healing.
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