Send us a text

Have you ever reacted so intensely to someone sneaking up behind you that people laughed or told you to "calm down"? That hypersensitive startle reflex isn't an overreaction—it's your body's trauma response working exactly as designed.

Drawing from personal experience, I dive deep into why certain "harmless pranks" can trigger full-blown nervous system meltdowns for people with trauma histories. When someone with PTSD jumps at a small noise or unexpected touch, their body isn't just being jumpy—it's reliving past danger. The science is clear: trauma doesn't just live in our memories; it's encoded in our physiology, creating a hypervigilant state that keeps us constantly scanning for threats.

What most people don't see is the aftermath—the racing heart that won't slow down, the tightness in the chest, the shaking hands, and the hours it takes to truly recover from what others dismiss as "just a joke." I share five practical, science-backed techniques to help regulate your nervous system after being triggered, from intentional breathing patterns to grounding exercises that bring you back to the present moment. For those who love someone with trauma, simple adjustments like announcing yourself before entering a room can make a world of difference in helping them feel safe.

This episode goes beyond just understanding reactions—it's about creating environments where healing can happen. Because respecting someone's trauma responses isn't about being overly sensitive; it's about basic human kindness and valuing their healing journey more than a momentary laugh. Share this with someone who needs to hear it, and remember: your reactions aren't wrong—they're your body trying to keep you safe.