December 14, 2020
In our previous article, we examined how neuroimaging is giving new insights into changes in the brain caused by trauma. Yes, trauma harms the human brain but how does that work? What could our bodies be doing that causes the types of damage outlined in this article?
Today, we shall investigate what is causing the damage to the brains of traumatized men, women, and children and give some hints as to what can prevent it. If you keep reading this series, you will be amazed by the new information we are going to share with you about what researchers are doing to find an effective treatment and possibly even a cure for many trauma-related disorders.
A Recap of the Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings
In the first article, we examined how functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has given a new understanding of how trauma changes the brain. We covered how the amygdala and hippocampus were found to be moderate to severely impacted. I quote:
“What researchers looked at the brains of those who have experienced severe traumatic events, such as those returning from the war, they found damage to the amygdalae and hippocampi. A study examined, with the then-new neuroimaging tool functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 1980 revealed smaller than normal volumes in both the hippocampi and amygdalae of people living with the diagnosis of PTSD. What this study shows is how two vital regions of the brain associated with emotional regulation and memory consolidation are damaged when exposed repeatedly to traumatic stress.” (1,2)
The damage to the amygdalae and hippocampi of traumatized individuals is severe and impacts many higher functions including impulse control and the consolidation of traumatic memories in association with sensory (sight, smell, audio) memories.
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