The Body Bears the Burden: Trauma, Dissociation, and Disease

Synopsis

When The Body Bears the Burden made its debut in 2001, it changed the way people thought about trauma, PTSD, and the treatment of chronic stress disorders. Now in its third edition, this revered text offers a fully updated and revised analysis of the relationship between mind, body, and the processing of trauma. Here, clinicians will find detailed, thorough explorations of some of neurobiology's fundamental tenets, the connections between mind, brain, and body, and the many and varied ways that symptoms of traumatic stress become visible to those who know to look for them.

About the Publisher

Routledge

Routledge is the world's leading academic publisher in the Humanities and Social Sciences. We publish thousands of books and journals each year, serving scholars, instructors, and professional communities worldwide. Our current publishing programme encompasses groundbreaking textbooks and premier, peer-reviewed research in the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Built Environment. We have partnered with many of the most influential societies and academic bodies to publish their journals and book series. Readers can access tens of thousands of print and e-books from our extensive catalogue of titles. Routledge is a member of Taylor & Francis Group, an informa business.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Body Remembers

* Summary: Trauma can have profound effects on the body, leading to physical symptoms and illnesses. The brain and body form a mutually reinforcing loop, where physical symptoms can intensify emotional distress, and vice versa.
* Example: A person who experiences a traumatic event may develop chronic pain, digestive issues, or autoimmune disorders.

Chapter 2: Trauma and the Body's Defense Mechanisms

* Summary: Trauma activates the body's "fight-flight-freeze" response, a natural protective mechanism. However, if this response becomes chronic, it can lead to physical and mental health problems.
* Example: A person who experiences repeated trauma may have difficulty regulating emotions, disconnect from their body, or develop a hyper-vigilant state.

Chapter 3: Dissociation

* Summary: Dissociation is a defense mechanism that allows individuals to disconnect from overwhelming memories, thoughts, or feelings. It can manifest as depersonalization, derealization, or amnesia.
* Example: A person who experiences sexual abuse may dissociate from the traumatic memories or their own sense of identity.

Chapter 4: Trauma and the Immune System

* Summary: Trauma can disrupt the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to infections and chronic diseases. It can also increase inflammation and suppress immune function.
* Example: A person who experiences prolonged stress due to trauma may have difficulty fighting off colds or flu, or develop autoimmune disorders.

Chapter 5: Trauma and the Cardiovascular System

* Summary: Trauma can damage the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke. It can also contribute to arrhythmias and other cardiac problems.
* Example: A person who experiences a car accident may have a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease or heart attack.

Chapter 6: Trauma and the Digestive System

* Summary: Trauma can disrupt the digestive system, causing symptoms such as indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It can also affect appetite and metabolism.
* Example: A person who experiences emotional neglect may develop chronic digestive issues or have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight.

Chapter 7: Trauma and the Nervous System

* Summary: Trauma can overload the nervous system, leading to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other mental health conditions. It can also cause chronic pain, migraines, and tremors.
* Example: A person who experiences a traumatic brain injury may have difficulty focusing, controlling emotions, or sleeping.

Chapter 8: Healing from Trauma

* Summary: Healing from trauma involves addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of the experience. This may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones.
* Example: A person who experiences trauma may benefit from trauma-informed therapy, physical activity, and connecting with others who have similar experiences.