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How Trauma Changes the Brain: What You Need to Know
Trauma, whether it’s from a physical injury or an emotional experience, can have a lasting impact on the brain. Thanks to research in neuroscience, we now know that trauma doesn’t just affect how we feel—it actually changes how the brain works. Understanding these changes can help us see why trauma has such powerful effects and how recovery is possible.
What Happens to the Brain During Trauma?
When you go through a traumatic event, your brain switches into “survival mode.” This is controlled by something called the stress response system, which prepares your body to deal with danger. You may have heard of the “fight, flight, or freeze” response. This is when stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline flood your body, helping you react quickly to protect yourself.
This response is helpful in the short term, like when you need to escape danger. But if trauma is ongoing, or if your brain keeps thinking you’re in danger even after the threat is gone, this stress response can do more harm than good.
How Trauma Changes the Brain
Trauma can change how different parts of the brain work and even how they look. Here are the three key areas affected:
1. The Amygdala: The Alarm System
The amygdala is the part of your brain that helps detect threats and process emotions like fear. After trauma, the amygdala can become overactive, making you feel on edge or jumpy even when you’re safe. This is why people who’ve experienced trauma often feel anxious or have trouble calming down.
2. The Prefrontal Cortex: The Decision Maker
The prefrontal cortex is like the brain’s “control center.” It helps you think logically, make decisions, and calm down after a stressful event. Trauma can make this part of the brain less active, which means it’s harder to think clearly, control your emotions, or feel in control of your reactions.
3. The Hippocampus: The Memory Keeper
The hippocampus is responsible for organizing memories and distinguishing between the past and the present. Trauma can make the hippocampus shrink, which is why some people have trouble remembering details of the trauma or feel like they’re reliving it (flashbacks), even when it’s over.
Why Do These Changes Matter?
The changes in the brain after trauma explain many of the symptoms people experience, such as:
• Flashbacks or nightmares: The brain struggles to tell the difference between past and present, so it feels like the trauma is happening again.
• Anxiety or hypervigilance: The overactive amygdala keeps you constantly on the lookout for danger.
• Difficulty focusing or making decisions: A less active prefrontal cortex makes it harder to think clearly.
These changes also show why trauma doesn’t just “go away” on its own—your brain needs time and support to heal.
Can the Brain Heal After Trauma?
The good news is that the brain is adaptable. This ability to change and heal is called neuroplasticity. With the right support, the brain can recover from the effects of trauma. Here’s how:
1. Therapy: Treatments like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can help “rewire” the brain and reduce symptoms.
2. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices like meditation can help calm the amygdala and strengthen the prefrontal cortex.
3. Exercise: Physical activity can increase the size of the hippocampus and improve mood by releasing feel-good chemicals like endorphins.
Trauma changes the brain, but these changes don’t have to be permanent. Understanding how trauma affects the brain can help us be more compassionate toward ourselves and others who are struggling. With the right tools and support, healing is not only possible—it’s likely.
This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years experience in the social work field. He currently serves as the executive director in outpatient behavioral health therapist at Southeast Kentucky Behavioral health based out of London Kentucky. He may be reached by phone at 606-657-0532 extension 101 or by email at john@sckybh.com
References
• Shin, L. M., Rauch, S. L., & Pitman, R. K. (2006). Amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex, and hippocampal function in PTSD. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1071(1), 67-79.
• Bremner, J. D. (2006). Traumatic stress: Effects on the brain. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 8(4), 445-461.
• van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.
Our Logo has meaning.
Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC’s logo symbolically represents behavioral health and well-being through the following elements:
1. Central Figure (Orange Abstract Person): The abstract human figure with outstretched arms symbolizes growth, empowerment, and the achievement of positive behavioral change. It reflects the progress individuals can make in managing and improving their behaviors.
2. Circular Blue Border: The blue circle represents unity, stability, and a sense of completeness, emphasizing the organization’s holistic approach to behavioral health care.
3. Green Leaves: The leaves at the base signify growth, renewal, and the nurturing of healthy behaviors, highlighting the process of transformation and positive change.
4. Stars (Upper Right): The stars represent guidance, aspirations, and achieving milestones, symbolizing the support provided to clients in navigating challenges and fostering behavioral growth.
5. Year Established (2013): Including the year highlights the organization’s experience and dedication to providing quality behavioral health services over time.
6. Overall Color Scheme: The combination of blue (trust and calm), red (energy and passion), and green (healing and renewal) reinforces the focus on promoting behavioral health, positive change, and well-being.
This design conveys the organization’s mission to support individuals in achieving healthier behaviors and improving their overall quality of life.
Supporting Veterans and Their Mental Health: A National Responsibility
Veterans have served their country with dedication and, upon returning to civilian life, often face numerous challenges that require our support and understanding. Many veterans experience significant mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. These challenges can hinder their ability to reintegrate into civilian life and maintain relationships, employment, and a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing the mental health needs of veterans and implementing effective support strategies is crucial for honoring their service and supporting their well-being.
The Mental Health Landscape for Veterans
Veterans are at a higher risk of mental health issues compared to the general population. A report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) indicated that approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from PTSD in any given year, and the prevalence is even higher among those who served in the Vietnam War (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Additionally, veterans are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues, with research suggesting that over 25% of veterans experience symptoms related to depression and other mood disorders (Hoge et al., 2004).
A primary cause of these mental health challenges is the exposure to trauma and high-stress situations during service. Repeated exposure to combat, violence, and injury can leave lasting psychological scars that are difficult to heal. This stress may also exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues, making it even more difficult for veterans to transition back to civilian life.
Barriers to Mental Health Care for Veterans
While the VA and other organizations offer resources for veterans, barriers to accessing mental health care persist. According to the RAND Corporation, veterans may face significant obstacles, such as long wait times for appointments, stigma surrounding mental health, and a lack of providers who understand military culture (Tanielian et al., 2018). This stigma can prevent veterans from seeking help, as they may feel that mental health challenges are a sign of weakness or that others will not understand their experiences.
Rural veterans often face additional obstacles due to the lack of nearby mental health resources. Research has shown that nearly a quarter of all veterans live in rural areas, where specialized mental health services may be limited (Weeks et al., 2008). Telemedicine and virtual counseling have helped bridge some of these gaps, but there remains a need for more accessible, culturally informed care tailored to the unique needs of veterans.
Strategies for Supporting Veterans’ Mental Health
- Increasing Access to Mental Health Services:
Expanding mental health resources specifically tailored for veterans is essential. The VA and other organizations are implementing initiatives to reduce wait times, increase the availability of telehealth services, and provide alternative therapies, such as art therapy, music therapy, and mindfulness practices (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Community-based programs can also provide veterans with accessible care, particularly in rural areas. - Building a Community of Support:
Peer support programs can be highly effective for veterans, as they allow veterans to connect with others who have had similar experiences. Programs like the Veterans Crisis Line and the VA’s Peer Support program connect veterans with trained peers, who provide support, understanding, and guidance. Research suggests that peer support reduces PTSD symptoms and increases veterans’ willingness to seek help (Resnick et al., 2012). - Reducing Stigma through Public Awareness:
Public awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in reducing stigma around veterans’ mental health issues. Campaigns should focus on educating both veterans and the general public about the commonality of mental health challenges, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength. The VA’s “Make the Connection” campaign is an example of an initiative aimed at reducing stigma and encouraging veterans to pursue mental health treatment (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). - Encouraging Family Involvement and Support:
Family members can be a crucial source of support for veterans dealing with mental health issues. Programs that educate family members about PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions can equip them to support their loved ones effectively. Involving families in therapy sessions can also create a support network that extends beyond formal mental health services, which may improve outcomes for veterans (Monson et al., 2006). - Employment and Reintegration Support:
Meaningful employment can significantly impact veterans’ mental health and quality of life. Programs like the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment services provide veterans with job training, career counseling, and job placement assistance, helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Research shows that veterans who find stable employment report higher levels of satisfaction and mental well-being (Resnik et al., 2012).
A Call to Action
Supporting veterans’ mental health is not only a moral duty but also a way to ensure the well-being of individuals who have made profound sacrifices. By addressing the barriers veterans face in accessing mental health care, expanding peer support networks, reducing stigma, and providing employment and family support, society can help veterans lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Moreover, these actions honor their service by providing the respect, care, and compassion they deserve.
We must continue to advocate for policies that support veterans’ mental health, fund research into effective treatments, and raise public awareness about the unique challenges veterans face. Providing veterans with the resources and support they need to thrive is one of the most meaningful ways we can repay them for their service and dedication to our country.
This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years of experience in the social work field and is based in London Kentucky through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Mr. Collier may be reached by phone at (606) 657–0532 extension 101 or by email at john@sekybh.com.
References
Hoge, C. W., Castro, C. A., Messer, S. C., McGurk, D., Cotting, D. I., & Koffman, R. L. (2004). Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, mental health problems, and barriers to care. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(1), 13-22.
Monson, C. M., Schnurr, P. P., Stevens, S. P., & Guthrie, K. A. (2006). Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD: Pilot results from a community sample. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 19(3), 289-299.
Resnick, S. G., & Rosenheck, R. A. (2012). Integrating peer-provided services: A quasi-experimental study of recovery orientation, confidence, and empowerment. Psychiatric Services, 63(6), 541-547.
Tanielian, T., Jaycox, L. H., & RAND Corporation. (2008). Invisible Wounds of War: Psychological and Cognitive Injuries, Their Consequences, and Services to Assist Recovery. RAND Corporation.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022). PTSD: National Center for PTSD. https://www.ptsd.va.gov