What happens in our brain and body when we are faced with a fear response? How does this link with fear and past trauma?

Fear feels like we are in a fog but once it goes we can see better

The fight, flight, freeze response is the body’s natural reaction to perceived danger,

driven by the autonomic nervous system. It’s a survival mechanism designed to protect us from threats. In the context of trauma, this response often becomes dysregulated, as the body and brain struggle to return to a state of calm.

The Fight, Flight, Freeze Responses

1. Fight – The body prepares to confront the danger. This may involve anger, aggression, or a heightened sense of control.

   • In trauma survivors: This may manifest as irritability, aggressive outbursts, or hypervigilance.

2. Flight – The urge to escape the situation arises, leading to avoidance or panic.

   • In trauma survivors: This could present as restlessness, anxiety, or a need to be constantly busy to avoid intrusive thoughts.

3. Freeze – The body becomes immobilized, feeling stuck or unable to respond.

   • In trauma survivors: This may look like dissociation, numbness, or emotional shutdown.

     
     

Beyond Fight, Flight, and Freeze

• Fawn – A lesser-known response where individuals try to appease or please others to avoid conflict.

  • In trauma survivors: This may show up as people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or hyper-attunement to others’ needs.

    
    

Trauma and the Nervous System

When trauma occurs, the brain's amygdala (responsible for detecting threats) becomes overactive. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for reasoning and logic, may go offline. The hippocampus, which helps store memories, can struggle to process the experience, leading to fragmented or intrusive memories.

Trauma can lead to a chronic state of hyperarousal (anxious, on-edge) or hypoarousal (numb, disconnected). The nervous system may stay stuck in fight, flight, or freeze mode, causing symptoms of PTSD or complex PTSD.

Supporting Trauma Survivors

In my trauma-informed practice, supporting clients involves:

• Regulation: Helping clients reconnect with their body using grounding techniques.

• Psychoeducation: Teaching them about the nervous system and normalizing their responses.

• Safety and Stabilization: Creating a sense of safety through routine, boundaries, and self-care.

• Empowerment: Encouraging clients to recognize their strengths and regain control over their responses.

  
  

I am a qualified Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist specializing in working with individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD).

Fear and past trauma can leave lasting imprints, affecting your sense of safety, relationships, and overall well-being. But healing is possible.

In our sessions, I provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to understand how trauma has shaped your life, build coping strategies, and foster resilience. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, flashbacks, dissociation, or the emotional weight of past experiences, I’m here to help.

You don’t have to face this alone. Reach out today to take the first step toward reclaiming your sense of self. Let’s begin your journey of healing and growth together.

Contact me to arrange a conversation and explore how therapy can support you.

Contact me