Trauma Responses: Your Body’s Built-in Alarm system

Ever found yourself snapping, shutting down, or suddenly wanting to run for the hills—over something small? That’s not you “being dramatic.” That’s your body remembering an old danger and trying to keep you safe.

What’s a Trauma Response?

It’s your brain and body’s autopilot survival mode. Something in the present feels like a past threat, and before you know it—boom—you’re in fight, flight, freeze, fawn, or even flop.

The Big Five:

Fight – Stand your ground (or come out swinging).

• Flight – Get the heck out of there.

• Freeze – Go still, go blank.

• Fawn – Keep the peace at all costs.

• Flop – Collapse physically or emotionally.

Why It Happens…

Your nervous system thinks you’re in danger. Stress hormones flood in, prepping you to survive—even if the “danger” is just a tense meeting or a tricky conversation.

What Helps in the Moment

• Pause and take a slow, deep breath.

• Feel your feet on the ground.

• Name what’s happening: “This is my body trying to protect me.”

• Give yourself permission to step away or regroup.

Bottom Line

Your trauma responses aren’t flaws—they’re proof you’ve survived. With awareness and practice, you can teach your nervous system that you’re safe now, and start responding instead of just reacting.

You are not just surviving—you are rising. Every moment you notice a trauma response and choose to meet it with compassion, you’re rewriting your story. You’ve carried pain, but you’ve also carried yourself through it, step by step. That’s strength. That’s courage. The road ahead may still have bumps, but it also holds joy, peace, and the freedom you deserve. The best part? You’re the one holding the pen now!