Trauma and the Body: Assessment-Led Guidance
Specialist CBT therapy for anxiety, OCD, depression and more in West London
Trauma can affect the body as well as the mind. Some people describe physical sensations, tension, a sense of being on alert, difficulty settling, or physical symptoms that are hard to explain. A guide cannot diagnose a trauma-related condition or determine whether physical symptoms are related to a past experience. An assessment can consider the person's current experience, health, safety and priorities. Physical symptoms can have many possible explanations, including medical conditions, medication, sleep disruption, physical health conditions, neurodivergence and other factors. New, severe or changing physical symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional. A psychological explanation and a medical question can both need attention at the same time, and a website cannot determine which applies. Research has explored associations between difficult experiences and changes in how the body responds to stress and perceived threat. These are group-level findings from research studies. They do not diagnose a condition, determine a cause in an individual case or predict the outcome of treatment. A guide cannot determine whether research findings apply to an individual. CBT may be considered after individual assessment where trauma is affecting daily life. Trauma-focused or exposure-based work should be planned with a suitably qualified clinician after discussion of the rationale, alternatives, safety and pacing. A guide is not a self-directed programme for somatic or exposure work. For related information, see trauma-focused CBT at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/therapy/trauma/, the trauma and PTSD guide at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-ptsd-comprehensive-guide/, trauma neuroscience at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-neuroscience/ and trauma at work at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-work-relationships/. If there is immediate danger, thoughts of self-harm, an inability to stay safe or a sudden marked deterioration, call 999, attend A&E or use urgent local crisis or medical support.
Frequently asked questions
Can a guide diagnose a trauma-related condition?
No. A guide can describe general patterns. An individual assessment can consider your specific experience, health, safety and context.
Can physical symptoms be assumed to be trauma-related?
No. New, severe or changing physical symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional. A psychological explanation and a medical question can both need attention at the same time.
Can I use this guide to work through trauma on my own?
No. Trauma-focused or exposure-based work should be planned with a suitably qualified clinician after individual assessment, consent and collaborative planning.
When should I seek urgent support?
If there is immediate danger, thoughts of self-harm, an inability to stay safe or a sudden marked deterioration, call 999, attend A&E or use urgent local crisis or medical support.