Is What You’re Experiencing Related to Trauma?
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or like you’re constantly on edge, you might be wondering: *Is this just stress, or could it be related to something deeper, like trauma?* It’s a question that many of us struggle with, and one that’s important to explore. Understanding the connection can be the first step toward healing.
Polyvagal Theory can offer insight here
This theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, suggests that our nervous system plays a huge role in how we experience stress and trauma. According to polyvagal theory, when we experience trauma or stress, our nervous system may shift into a “survival mode” — this could look like feeling numb, disconnected, anxious, or hyper-alert.
Ask yourself:
- Do I often feel “on edge” or like I’m in a constant state of alertness?
- Am I numb or disconnected from my emotions or my body?
- Do I struggle with trusting others or feel unsafe in relationships?
- Do certain situations trigger a fight, flight, or freeze response that feels uncontrollable?
- Is my sense of self-worth deeply affected by past experiences?
If you resonate with any of these, it might be helpful to explore how your nervous system is responding to past events. *Trauma* doesn’t always look like a single big event—it can accumulate over time, especially when we don’t have the space or tools to process what we’ve been through.
Resources to Consider:
- Polyvagal Theory 101 by Dr. Stephen Porges (book & videos)
- The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
- Somatic Experiencing (a trauma therapy that focuses on the body’s responses)
- Therapists specializing in trauma (search for a licensed professional in your area)
#TraumaAwareness #PolyvagalTheory #Therapy #MentalHealthMatters #HealingJourney
