Brain Trauma
Trauma brain refers to either physical damage from a violent head impact (Traumatic Brain Injury/TBI) or functional, structural, and chemical changes in the brain caused by severe emotional stress (Traumatic Stress/PTSD). TBI causes physical injuries like concussions or bleeding, while emotional trauma hijacks the brain's alarm system, leading to chronic “fight, flight, or freeze” responses.
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic
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Key Aspects of Trauma Brain
Physical (TBI): Caused by a bump, blow, or jolt that disrupts normal function. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, memory loss, and mood changes.
Emotional/Chronic Trauma: Causes the amygdala (fear center) to become overactive and the hippocampus (memory center) to be impaired.
Long-term Effects: Trauma can lead to hypervigilance, emotional dysregulation, and difficulty with cognitive functions.
Recovery and Healing: Through neuroplasticity, the brain can heal from trauma. Treatments like psychotherapy (CBT, EMDR), meditation, yoga, and medication can help rewire the brain.