Help Getting Out of the Freeze Response and Your Trauma Therapist in Denver
When faced with trauma, individuals can experience a profound physiological response known as the freeze response. This reaction, identified through The Polyvagal Theory by Stephen W. Porges (2011), can manifest in several observable ways:
Eyes widening
Slowing down of all bodily systems
Inability to think clearly
Overwhelming fear
Seeking cues to withdraw further
Potential difficulty breathing or speaking, sometimes accompanied by a locked jaw
According to Dr. Janina Fischer, trauma specialist, these symptoms indicate the body's instinctual focus on survival rather than active engagement. Understanding and addressing the freeze response is crucial in trauma therapy. One way to check how you’re doing is using an oximeter to detect a low oxygen level in your blood. The normal range is between 95-100%, a little below 95% at a high altitude is within the normal range.
Strategies to Address the Freeze Response:
Do 4-5 slow inhales and exhales - This will increase your oxygen level in a short time.
Reduce Stimulation Cues: Minimize environmental triggers that may exacerbate the freeze response. Make the room darker, create a quiet place.
Increase Safety Cues: Create an environment that promotes safety and comfort through:
Playing soothing vocal music - YouTube has music for freeze responses
Adjusting speech patterns to convey calmness without a patronizing tone
Practicing slow, controlled breathing techniques
Avoiding expressions of anger or disappointment
Cultivate Compassion: To de-escalate self-defense mechanisms, therapists can foster both self-compassion and compassion for the client and promote a sense of safety.
Physical Techniques: Encourage movement and bodily awareness to release frozen muscles. For instance, nod or shake your head; or move your eyes to the far right. You can initiate small movements that help unlock the freeze response.
Challenges in Overcoming the Freeze Response
Overcoming the freeze response presents significant challenges, particularly in learning to tolerate one's bodily reactions. Experts like Peter Levine and Dr. Ruth Lanius emphasize the importance of:
Recognizing and managing dissociative states (read here) versus fear responses.
Using physical exercises like jogging in place or doing push-ups to activate the sympathetic nervous system and counteract collapse.
Applying deep pressure techniques to alleviate immobility.
More Trauma Therapy Resources for the Freeze Response in Denver, CO
Addressing the freeze response in trauma therapy involves understanding its physiological manifestations and employing targeted interventions to promote safety, compassion, and gradual re-engagement with bodily sensations. By integrating these strategies, therapists can effectively support clients in navigating and healing from traumatic experiences.
Resources for Further Learning:
Janina Fischer, PhD, NICABM: Watch here
Insights from Dr. Ruth Lanius, MD, PhD: Watch here
Peter Levine's approach to trauma therapy: Watch here
Get trauma therapy support in Denver, CO and overcome freezing from trauma triggers.
By enhancing awareness and utilizing these techniques, your trauma therapist in Denver, CO can effectively help you recover from the freeze response and move towards healing. For more trauma support call 720-577-5985.
