Stress & Trauma

Chronic stress is one of the most common symptoms of unresolved trauma.

Trauma as a Cause of Chronic Stress

The link between stress and trauma is rooted in how the body and mind respond to overwhelming or threatening experiences. Trauma refers to deeply distressing or disturbing events that overwhelm our ability to cope that is often experienced alone or in isolation and result in neurological changes in our brains.

Stress is our body’s natural response to perceived threats or challenges. When we experiences trauma, it can trigger intense and prolonged stress responses. After a traumatic event, if our bodies remain in a heightened state of alertness, known as the "fight-or-flight" response, this ongoing stress response can become chronic, leading to physical and emotional health problems, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The Role of Memory and Triggers

Traumatic experiences can be stored in memory in a way that makes them easily reactivated by reminders or "triggers." These triggers can cause a surge of stress, even long after the traumatic event has passed, as the body responds as if the danger is still present.

Impact on the Brain

Trauma can alter brain structures involved in stress regulation, such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. These changes can make it harder to manage everyday stress and can exacerbate the impact of future stressors.

Cycle of Stress and Trauma

The relationship between stress and trauma can become cyclical. Trauma can lead to chronic stress, which in turn can heighten sensitivity to future stressors, potentially leading to re-traumatization or difficulty recovering from new stressful events.

Healing and Management

Understanding the link between stress and trauma is crucial for effective treatment. As Juliane Taylor Shore always says, “we experience the present through history colored glasses”. Though our stress may in part be due to a present stressor, the intensity of the stress may also be due to historical events that our bodies are still experiencing as present realities. The great news is that chronic stress is an adaptive response not a permanent response! With the help of a mental health clinician trained in healing trauma, you can experience freedom from chronic stress and reclaim your present and your future.

At Logos, we specialize in healing the root causes of chronic stress. If you believe you may have chronic stress or trauma, reach out to us for a free consultation and we would love to help you expereience more freedom and healing.