Our bodies are like computers; they store every part of us, even the parts we’d rather forget.
When we experience something traumatic, it shocks our brain, interrupting our entire system.
Trauma isn’t just in our heads; it leaves a physical imprint on our bodies.
Neglected past trauma has an extreme effect on our health.
According to a Harvard Medical School research study, unhealed past trauma can make you susceptible to severe health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, weight problems, diabetes, and cancer.
When something traumatic happens to us, our memory system malfunctions, not storing the traumatic memory properly, forcing our bodies to relieve this trauma.
If trauma is left untreated, you can experience nightmares, insomnia, anxiety, depression, phobias, substance abuse, panic attacks, anger, irritability, or hopelessness. You may also experience physical symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, rapid heartbeat, or extreme fatigue.
Signs of unresolved trauma include:
- Intrusive thoughts of the event that may occur out of the blue.
- Nightmares.
- Visual images of the event.
- Loss of memory and concentration abilities.
- Disorientation.
- Confusion.
- -Mood swings.
- “Missing” or “losing” time.
- Flashbacks and nightmares.
- Unreasonable attempts to rescue others.
- Extreme fears that appear without reason.
- Divisive black & white thinking.
- Repeated panic attacks.
When trauma occurs, it can often remain trapped in your body, causing a lifetime of issues; here are some steps to help you heal from past trauma:
- Allow yourself to feel the feelings.
- Practice mindfulness.
- Practice self-compassion.
- Speak to a trusted loved one and/or a licensed therapist.
