Understanding How the Somatic Nervous System is Part of Trauma Responses

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Understanding the Role of the Somatic Nervous System in Trauma Reactions

Deconstructing How the Somatic Nervous System Influences Trauma Responses

In this article, we delve into the complex world of neuroscience, highlighting a particular part of the nervous system that plays a crucial role in our reactions to trauma; the somatic nervous system. The somatic nervous system is part of the overall assembly of our body's complex neural systems and plays an impactful part in how we react and recover from traumatic experiences.

Highlights:

1. Overview of the Somatic Nervous System
2. The Somatic Nervous System and Trauma
3. Understanding Trauma's Impact on the Somatic Nervous System
4. Techniques to Aid Somatic Systems in Trauma Recovery
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Overview of the Somatic Nervous System

Let's start with breaking down the various systems that make up the nervous system. It can be broken down into two main categories:

1. Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprises of the brain and spinal cord.

2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): All other nervous systems outside of the CNS.

The peripheral nervous system is further sub-divided into the autonomic nervous system, and the somatic nervous system. While the autonomic nervous system coordinates involuntary functions like heartbeat and digestion, the somatic nervous system is more concerned with facilitating voluntary actions, such as lifting a cup or typing on a keyboard.

The Somatic Nervous System and Trauma

Trauma does not only affect our emotional realms but leaves a profound impact on our physical bodies. The somatic nervous system, which responds to external stimuli and governs our physical responses, can be severely affected by a traumatic episode.

"Our physical bodies carry trauma, and they remember it, too."

Traumatic experiences often cause a person to go into the 'fight or flight' mode. While this survival response is driven by the autonomic nervous system, the somatic nervous system is responsible for actively carrying out these actions.

Understanding Trauma's Impact on the Somatic Nervous System

Traumatic experiences can lead to a state of hyperarousal where the individual is constantly on high alert. Over time, this state can lead to physical ailments such as tension, chronic pain, migraines, and digestive issues.

There's a kind of somatic memory; our body remembers and their reactions are often involuntary responses to stressful triggers.

Techniques to Aid Somatic Systems in Trauma Recovery

Several therapeutic interventions focus on helping the somatic system recover from trauma, like Somatic Experiencing and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. These therapies aim to help individuals reconnect with their bodies in a safe manner, re-align their physical responses and ultimately help alleviate the symptoms of their trauma.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the role of the somatic nervous system in trauma?The somatic nervous system which governs voluntary physical actions, reacts to the 'fight or flight' stimuli during a trauma.

2. Can trauma affect the somatic nervous system?Yes, long-lasting trauma can cause the individual to be in a state of hyperarousal resulting in long-term physical ailments.

3. What are some therapy options for trauma-related issues with the somatic nervous system?Somatic experiencing and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy are therapeutic interventions that aid in trauma recovery.

This complex topic of the somatic nervous system's role in trauma responses is both fascinating and extremely important in giving trauma sufferers the right treatment and care. As our understanding continues to evolve, so do our chances of effectively managing and alleviating the impact of trauma.

Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.