How Trauma Affects The Brain
Traumatic experiences can lead to PTSD, depression, substance abuse, dissociation, personality disorders, and health problems. Our brains follow a specific path to normal development which can be interrupted and rewired when exposed to trauma, regardless of if we have been exposed once or multiple times. It’s important to note that trauma at different stages in life will have different effects on brain development. An example of this is the impact on the development that PTSD has on the brain. Symptoms of PTSD such as flashbacks and changes in memory are thought to represent the behavioral manifestation of stress-induced changes in brain structure as well as function. Acute and chronic changes in neurochemical systems can result from prolonged stress and impact specific brain regions that change the brain “circuits” that react to stress.
Studies have shown that after traumatic stress has occurred there are alterations in memory function, the hippocampus, amygdala, and medial prefrontal cortex. When the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex are impacted by trauma it’s not uncommon for people to become more reactive, hypervigilant, and their past becomes the present. The reason the past becomes the present is because the hippocampus distinguishes between the past and present so when it is impacted by trauma it’s difficult for the hippocampus to know the difference between the traumatic event and just the memory of it. This means that triggers of the traumatic event are viewed as threats themselves in real time.
When people experience trauma the brain works to suppress memories and impulse control as well as putting the individual in a state of strong emotional reactivity. Although trauma has a profound impact on the development of our brain, the changes are not irreversible. The human mind has the ability to adapt and neuroplasticity allows the brain to create new connections which rewires our brain to reverse the damaging effects of trauma. When we work to overcome and process trauma new pathways are created which increases the functioning of areas and strengthens connections. This can be seen when we are able to grow and change by learning something new. If you or a loved one has been exposed to trauma and are looking to rewire your brain in a healthier way, we at Perspectives Anew Therapy are here to help.
Source: National Library of Medicine: National Center for Biotechnology Information, Whole Wellness Therapy.