Trauma is a buzzword! We label all sorts of things \"trauma\" or \"traumatic\" without consideration of what was actually happening in the brain and body at the time of the incident. Understanding the neuropsychology and neurobiology of trauma, in fact, helps us understand how we process events and experiences. And it is that understanding that reveals the reason behind so many of the behaviors in both humans and horses that get labeled but not properly addressed.
Trauma is meant to be a state, not a trait.
When trauma becomes a trait, meaning the individual -- whether horse or human -- is living in a constant state of alarm, everything suffers. The ability to think clearly, respond appropriately, and relate to others in a healthy manner is not possible. This chronic state of survival actually becomes a survival risk!
That is why it is so important to take a step back and explore why we do what we do from a trauma-informed lens. From that vantage point, we can find the pathway forward by identifying where we need to stabilize so that we can thrive in our humanship and horsemanship.
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