Stress Response

Normalizing Your Reactions

With so much conversation around stress responses, particularly the fight, flight, and freeze reactions, it's no surprise that many of us are left with questions about how our bodies work under pressure. This growing awareness has sparked the need for a deeper understanding. Whether you’re familiar with the neuroscience behind it or not, I’d like to offer clarity on this topic, especially given my specialty in trauma therapy.

What is Trauma?

Let’s start with defining trauma. According to Peter Levine, trauma is “too much, too fast, too soon.” In essence, it’s a state of overwhelm, often paired with a lack of resources to return to a state of equilibrium. We can also think of trauma as “too little, for too long,” as neglect is a form of trauma we often overlook.

Why Stress Responses Matter

Stress responses are responsible for keeping us alive. When we see them as tools for preservation, we can begin to remove the stigma associated with them. There is no "wrong" response. These reactions—whether it's fight, flight, or freeze—are automatic and happen faster than the mind can process. They're not conscious choices but rather deeply ingrained survival instincts, shared by all animals, designed to protect us in moments of danger.

For example, consider a gazelle being chased by a cheetah. It instinctively knows to either run or play dead. Our responses are no different. While we may not be chased by cheetahs, our nervous systems know when we’re in danger, even if that danger is less obvious. Trauma further complicates this, as it can leave the nervous system on constant high alert, always bracing for the next threat.

Reframing Your Response

It’s important to highlight that your body is doing exactly what it’s designed to do. There's no need to feel guilt or shame about how you react in stressful situations. Beating yourself up for responding instinctively only adds to the emotional burden and keeps you stuck in a cycle of shame and defeat. Compassion is key to breaking this cycle.

In the next newsletter, I’ll break down these responses in more detail, helping you better understand your own experiences. For now, remember that your responses to stress are not only natural—they’re vital to your survival.

Stay tuned,

Eva | The Rising Sol