The connection between trauma and the brain has become better understood in recent years, partly due to research on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A rising need for PTSD treatment has encouraged mental health professionals to learn more about how trauma affects brain function.
Trauma can refer to a single distressing event or a pattern of experiences, such as being a victim or witness of domestic violence. These experiences can change the way people react in stressful situations as well as affect their memory and other brain functions.
Trauma can impact people’s lives in many ways, but focused mental health treatments like those provided at Promises Behavioral Health help people cope with it and minimize its symptoms.
Understanding Trauma and the Brain
Trauma isn’t only an experience. It also refers to a person’s reaction to that experience. That’s significant because we all have very different coping skills and support systems.
Some people have life experiences or biological factors that increase their risk for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions like acute stress disorder. That is why two people can share a distressing event, and only one develops PTSD or another mental health concern.
Some common examples of a traumatic event include:
- Childhood abuse
- Sexual assault
- Combat trauma or living in a war zone
- The sudden death of a loved one
- A near-death experience
- A natural disaster
When a person experiences a traumatic event, it can change their brain’s function and structure. The exact changes depend on many factors, including the individual’s natural coping mechanisms, their general health, and the brain region that’s been affected.
The Hippocampus
The hippocampus may be partially responsible for organizing past memories. When altered by trauma, this region of the brain can make it difficult to discern past memories from current events. This may cause flashbacks and difficulty with concentration and learning.
The Amygdala
The amygdala controls the “fight, flight, or freeze” response that is instinctual to humans when they sense a threat. Hyperactivity of the amygdala can lead to a heightened fear response. It can also cause an overreaction to perceived danger and make it difficult to calm down even once you know the threat is gone.
The Prefrontal Cortex
When trauma alters the prefrontal cortex, it may affect a person’s decision-making skills. It can also make it more difficult to regulate emotions. The prefrontal cortex is partially responsible for controlling impulsive behavior and assessing risk. Planning and problem-solving skills may also be altered.
How Does PTSD Treatment Help With Healing Trauma?
Healing trauma can take time, but a quality known as neuroplasticity allows the brain to retrain itself and learn new ways of reacting. Trauma therapies that can help the brain rewire itself include stress management, art therapy, equine therapy, and mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga.
Treating any co-occurring conditions is also necessary for healing trauma. People with PTSD or acute distress disorder often suffer from additional mental conditions like substance use disorder, depression, or anxiety.
Treatment begins with detox if appropriate. Those with an alcohol or substance use disorder may need to undergo medical detox before they can begin treatment for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions.
Both outpatient and residential programs are available. Your healthcare professional may recommend a program based on your medical needs and the status of a dual diagnosis.
Begin Your Healing Journey with PTSD Treatment at Promises Behavioral Health
Trauma has a direct biological effect on the brain. Depending on the brain region that’s been affected, you might overreact to situations, confuse past memories with current events, or have difficulty concentrating. Anyone can develop trauma-related conditions, but those with inadequate coping skills and little support are at greater risk.
You may never forget the events that traumatized you, but you can heal from them and minimize any lasting effects. Reach out today using our online contact form or by calling Promises Behavioral Health at 888.483.7451 for more information about the PTSD treatment program and evidence-based trauma therapies we offer.