Trauma can cause big changes in the brain, which affects our mental health in important ways:
Smaller Hippocampus: Research shows that people with PTSD can have their hippocampus, a part of the brain used for memory, shrink by 20-30%. This can make it hard for them to remember things.
Active Amygdala: Studies using images show that the amygdala, which is responsible for fear and anxiety, can become 35% more active in those who have experienced trauma.
Less Active Prefrontal Cortex: People who have gone through trauma often have 10-15% less brain activity in the prefrontal cortex. This area is important because it helps us control our emotions.
These changes in the brain can lead to different mental health problems, like depression and anxiety disorders.
Trauma can cause big changes in the brain, which affects our mental health in important ways:
Smaller Hippocampus: Research shows that people with PTSD can have their hippocampus, a part of the brain used for memory, shrink by 20-30%. This can make it hard for them to remember things.
Active Amygdala: Studies using images show that the amygdala, which is responsible for fear and anxiety, can become 35% more active in those who have experienced trauma.
Less Active Prefrontal Cortex: People who have gone through trauma often have 10-15% less brain activity in the prefrontal cortex. This area is important because it helps us control our emotions.
These changes in the brain can lead to different mental health problems, like depression and anxiety disorders.