Navigating Trauma: Understanding the Obsession and Healing Path

Trauma can be a deeply distressing and disruptive experience, affecting our mental, emotional, and physical health. While some may dismiss the importance of trauma as insignificant, its profound impact on our well-being cannot be underestimated. When trauma becomes the subject of obsession, it often signifies unresolved issues that our mind is trying to heal. This article explores the nature of trauma, its impact on our brain, and the steps to effectively deal with conditions like OCD and PTSD.

The Biased Brain and Trauma

The human brain is inherently wired in a way that, when faced with trauma, the right brain (emotional, negative) tends to hold onto these experiences more keenly. This (Right)- brain is responsible for processing intense emotions and memories, often leading us to feel stuck in the past. On the other hand, the left brain (logical, positive) focuses on the present and the future, making it more resilient and adaptive.

When trauma is unresolved, it can create a cycle where past events constantly resurface, leading to a vicious cycle of anxiety and distress. The video by GET MOGIVE (EGMi) illustrates this process, showing how the brain evolved to often traumatize others and how this affects our mental health.

Understanding the Cognitive Process of Trauma

Trauma events, whether from one or multiple occurrences, alter the way our brain processes emotions and memories. Whenever a trigger is sensed, the trauma bypasses the cortex (the higher planning and reasoning part) and directly activates the hippocampus (memory center) and the amygdala (emotional and physical reaction center).

Here’s how the process works:

Cortex (Initial Processing): The traumatic event is first processed in the cortex. Amygdala (Reaction): The amygdala then processes the physical and/or emotional reaction to the trauma. Hippocampus (Memory Storage): The hippocampus stores the memory for future reference.

When a trigger is encountered, it bypasses the cortex, directly activating the hippocampus. The stored memory then prompts the amygdala to trigger a reaction, often causing unexpected and bewildering responses. This cycle can be disruptive and overwhelming.

Addressing Mental Health Disorders: Understanding Diagnoses and Conditions

Mental health disorders, such as trauma, OCD, and PTSD, can be misunderstood and stigmatized. Some individuals may feel angry or hostile about their diagnosis, claiming that “not everything is depression” or denying the reality of conditions like ADHD. However, understanding mental health is crucial for effective management and treatment.

The fear and stigma often attached to mental illness can be minimized through education and understanding. Diagnosis, whether accurate or not, serves as a starting point for treatment and management. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are forms of therapy aimed at addressing and coping with these conditions.

It’s important to remember that denial does not help. In fact, denial can exacerbate the condition. For example, someone with diabetes who denied their diagnosis and engaged in negative coping mechanisms would fail to manage their condition effectively. Similarly, mental health conditions require active engagement and management through therapy and lifestyle changes.

Conclusion

Trauma, OCD, and PTSD are not fearsome specters but conditions that can be effectively managed with the right tools and strategies. Understanding the brain’s response to trauma and seeking appropriate therapy can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Recognize that denial and fear do not help, and that embracing knowledge and support can lead to better coping mechanisms and long-term recovery.