How Unprocessed Trauma Affects Mental Health
When we undergo a traumatic event, we often find ourselves trapped in the overwhelming shock of the experience, creating an obstacle to fully process what has occurred. The shock creates endless cycles of physical, emotional, and psychological feelings of the event as if it were happening in real time. To transcend this state of stuntedness, we must FIRST:
☀️☀️☀️ recognize that we have been stuck in a state of shock. ☀️☀️☀️
This revelation was the epiphany and catalyst that excelled my own personal healing. Life changed once I had the “of course I’m stuck in shock” moment, which accounted for the outwardly expressions of the trauma. The key to healing is recognition. What happened did happen. Each of us are validated.
Personality Alterations: Unresolved shock can lead to significant changes in our personality. We may become more withdrawn, irritable, or emotionally distant. These alterations can affect our behavior, emotional responses, and relationships with others.
Mood Disorders: The accumulation of unprocessed shock can substantially increase our risk of mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. We may experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, which can be challenging to overcome.
Emotional Dysregulation: This means that we struggle to manage our emotions effectively. We may experience sudden mood swings, intense emotional reactions, or find it difficult to control our feelings.
Chronic Stress: The ongoing burden of unprocessed shock can activate our body’s stress response system, leading to chronic stress. Prolonged stress has adverse effects on physical health, exacerbating mental health issues and potentially leading to physical health problems.
Intrusive Symptoms: These can include flashbacks, nightmares, and distressing memories, which can significantly disrupt our daily life.
Impaired Coping Mechanisms: We may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, avoidance, or self-isolation.
Interference with Relationships: The emotional and behavioral changes associated with unresolved shock can strain relationships with family, friends, and loved ones. Communication difficulties and emotional distance may emerge.
Physical Health Implications: The mind and body are intimately connected. Unresolved shock can contribute to physical health problems, such as tension headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and even weakened immune function.
Reduced Quality of Life: Overall, unprocessed shock can significantly diminish our quality of life. It can lead to a sense of stagnation, emotional pain, and a lack of fulfillment.
What would happen if we simply just allowed ourselves to recognize that we have been in a state of shock? Could that create a deeper sense of knowing thyself and healing?