Dorsal Freeze: Unpacking Trauma's Hidden Response with Dr. Douglas Brackmann
And that dorsal freeze is kind of like a physiological response to either an impact like a traumatic event, or like almost like developmental trauma where there's prolonged periods of helplessness, and it's it's god's way of keeping us out of pain.
Ever felt completely numb or overwhelmed in the face of stress? You might be experiencing what's known as dorsal freeze. In this episode of 'I Am Driven Podcast', psychologist Dr. Douglas Brackmann and co-host Meghan dive into this lesser-known physiological response to trauma. They unravel how dorsal freeze can leave you feeling stuck, helpless, and disconnected from your emotions and surroundings. Through relatable analogies and real-life examples, Dr.
Brackmann sheds light on how traumatic events and prolonged stress can trigger this response, often as a protective mechanism. But while it might shield you in the moment, dorsal freeze can have lasting impacts on your mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and more. Dr. Brackmann doesn't just stop at explaining the phenomenon; he offers practical advice for healing.
By becoming more attuned to your body's stress signals and staying present, you can begin to navigate through the fog of trauma. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking therapy or support systems to process and heal from past experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand their own responses to trauma better and find actionable steps towards recovery. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of dorsal freeze and start your journey towards healing.