Trauma Lives in the Body Too

Despite how it may seem, trauma doesn’t just affect your thoughts or emotions, it impacts your entire body.

While many people associate trauma with flashbacks, anxiety, or depression, the physical symptoms of trauma are just as real and important to understand.

When the body experiences trauma, especially chronic or unprocessed trauma, it can stay stuck in a state of stress long after the threat is gone. This can lead to long-term health consequences if left unaddressed.

The Body’s Response to Chronic Stress

Trauma triggers the body’s fight, flight, or freeze response, our natural survival mechanism. But when trauma is ongoing or unprocessed, the nervous system can become overactivated and stay on high alert even when there’s no immediate danger.

This is what happens:

• The nervous system becomes overstimulated, constantly scanning for threats.

• The stress hormone cortisol remains elevated, contributing to inflammation and fatigue.

• The vagus nerve, which helps regulate rest and digestion, may not function optimally.

• The body begins to store trauma physically, often in muscles, tissues, and posture.

Signs Trauma May Be Living in the Body

Unprocessed trauma can show up in subtle as well as not-so-subtle ways. Here are a few physical symptoms to be aware of:

• Chronic tension, especially in the jaw, neck, or shoulders

• Digestive issues (IBS, nausea, constipation)

• Migraines or frequent headaches

• Sleep disturbances or insomnia

• Fatigue or burnout that rest doesn't seem to fix

• Sensitivity to noise or touch

• Racing heart or shortness of breath without physical exertion

These symptoms are not all in your head. They’re real, bodily responses to unresolved pain.

How Mental Health Professionals Can Help

Healing from trauma is possible, especially with the right support. Mental health professionals take a collaborative approach to trauma recovery, recognizing that both the mind and body need care.

Here’s how different professionals can help:

• Therapists work with clients to safely process traumatic experiences, develop coping strategies, and reconnect with themselves.

• Medication providers like Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners can assess whether medication may be appropriate to help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, or manage intrusive thoughts. For many individuals, medication can create enough relief to begin or engage more fully in therapy.

Mental health support can help regulate the nervous system, improve physical symptoms, and build the resilience needed to move forward.

A Path Toward Healing

Unprocessed trauma can leave lasting imprints, not just emotionally, but physically. But it doesn’t have to affect you forever. With professional support, healing is both possible and sustainable.

If you're experiencing symptoms that may be linked to trauma, reach out to a mental health provider. A personalized plan can help you reclaim a sense of safety, stability, and connection in your life.

We are always here for you at Wellspaceforwomen@gmail.com