“The trauma is not in the event, but in the nervous system.”
Dr. Peter A. Levine
“The trauma is not in the event, but in the nervous system.”
Dr. Peter A. Levine
Various experiences such as a traffic accident, serious illness, loss, childhood neglect, war, natural disasters, or (sexual) violence can trigger trauma. In such threatening situations, the body intuitively reacts with flight, fight, or freeze responses. The nervous system mobilizes immense energy for each of these natural survival strategies. In the case of flight or fight, this energy is discharged through movement – but in the case of freezing, this is often not the case. If the energy bound up in the freeze state remains undischarged or unregulated by another person, the body remains in a state of internal alarm. It is precisely this frozen state that can lead to the development of trauma.
This process is known as somatic dysregulation. It leaves behind a profound feeling of vulnerability, helplessness, and being overwhelmed. Experiences in the here and now are restricted, as is emotional and cognitive processing. If physical regulation—including co-regulation by a caregiver—is lacking over a longer period of time, this can lead to attachment and contact disorders as well as lasting psychological consequences.
Trauma does not refer to the event itself, but rather to the body's and mind's ongoing reaction to an extreme threat. The decisive factor is whether the nervous system returns to a state of calm after the experience by releasing the traumatic energy—or remains permanently on alert. Trauma is therefore not a sign of weakness, but rather an expression of an overwhelming protective reaction.
Many people experience misfortunes and process them without long-lasting consequences. Trauma only arises when the inner balance—i.e., the nervous system's ability to return to a regulated state—remains permanently disturbed. Typical symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are:
In cases of complex trauma—such as after years of violence or neglect—difficulties in regulating emotions, self-image, and relationships are added to the mix. This results in severe dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system.
Modern research shows that trauma is not purely a psychological experience. It directly affects the autonomic nervous system, stress hormones, and the body's ability to switch between tension and calm. Concepts such as Polyvagal Theory have shaped our understanding of safety, connection, and co-regulation in working with those affected.
Children process traumatic experiences differently than adults. Adults who have had stable attachment experiences in childhood are generally better able to process traumatic events than people with insecure attachment patterns. Children often show their overwhelm through behavior—such as withdrawal, restlessness, aggression, or physical complaints. Early childhood trauma can have a long-term impact on attachment, self-regulation, and development. Therefore, secure relationships, stabilization, and trauma-sensitive support are of central importance.
Trauma is treatable. Well-researched forms of therapy help many affected individuals to integrate their experiences. This requires a safe environment, a feeling of being seen, and the opportunity to gradually regulate the nervous system.
Trauma affects not only individuals but also families, communities, and systems. This also includes transgenerational and collective trauma, which is passed down through generations or shaped by social events.
A foundation can: