Adrenal Fatigue and Trauma Healing
- Kirsten
- Dec 23, 2025
- 4 min read
Adrenal fatigue is a term that is used to describe how a person may feel following trauma, and in this post we are going to be exploring the impact that this has on the body's nervous system. You can read a research article about this by clicking on the quote below which links to an article by James L. Wilson; Clinical perspective on stress, cortisol and adrenal fatigue
Understanding Adrenal Fatigue: The Impact of Trauma on the Nervous System
When an individual experiences a traumatic event, the adrenal glands respond by releasing stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This heightened state of alertness is part of the body's natural fight-or-flight response, designed to help cope with immediate danger. However, prolonged exposure to stress can lead to an overworked adrenal system, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, and mood swings. The nervous system, particularly the sympathetic branch, remains activated, which can further exacerbate feelings of stress and overwhelm. Over time, this can disrupt the body's ability to regulate itself, leading to a cycle of exhaustion and heightened sensitivity to stressors. Addressing adrenal fatigue often requires a comprehensive approach that includes stress management techniques, lifestyle changes, and support for the nervous system to restore balance and promote healing.
The Vital Role of a Healthy Nervous System in Body Communication and Well-being
A healthy nervous system functions as the body's communication network, coordinating and regulating various physiological processes. It comprises the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the CNS to the rest of the body. When the nervous system is in optimal condition, it efficiently transmits signals between the brain and other body parts, allowing for quick reactions to stimuli, effective movement, and proper sensory perception. Additionally, a well-functioning nervous system supports emotional well-being and cognitive functions, enabling individuals to think clearly, manage stress, and respond appropriately to their environment. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, is essential for sustaining the health of the nervous system.
The Impact of Trauma on Nervous System Regulation and our Well-being
As discussed above the nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating the body's response to stress and maintaining homeostasis. So what happens when the nervous system becomes disregulated due to trauma? It can lead to a state of hyperarousal or hypoarousal.
In hyperarousal, the sympathetic nervous system is overactive, resulting in heightened anxiety, increased heart rate, and exaggerated startle responses.
Conversely, hypoarousal manifests as dissociation, numbness, or a sense of detachment, as the body attempts to protect itself from overwhelming emotions.
This dis-regulation can disrupt communication between the brain and the body, leading to difficulties in emotional regulation, impaired cognitive function, and physical health issues.
Ultimately, trauma can cause the nervous system to remain in a state of alert, making it challenging for individuals to return to a balanced and regulated state. An alternative perspective is that the body employed strategies to shield us from trauma as effectively as possible and has since remained in that protective state. Consequently, it is necessary for us to intentionally deactivate this response and support ourselves in returning to a state where our nervous system feels safe, calm and connected. Let's move onto the How.
Strategies for Reducing Adrenal Fatigue And Healing Trauma
Reducing adrenal fatigue after experiencing trauma involves a multifaceted approach that emphasises both physical and emotional recovery. When we begin therapy we focus on emotional regulation, emphasising the development of effective self-care practices and the confidence to use stress-management strategies. Our strength-based therapy highlights your inherent safety, which is crucial for healing. The initial step in trauma healing therapy is to assess and affirm your sense of safety.
It is crucial to prioritise rest and sleep, as adequate restorative sleep is essential for adrenal health. Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation. Nutrition also plays a vital role; a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can support adrenal function. Additionally, staying hydrated and avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar can further aid in recovery. Regular physical activity, tailored to individual energy levels, can help boost mood and energy.
Throughout your therapeutic journey with me, I aim to provide you a safe and secure environment for emotional healing, while offering various strategies to help you effectively manage the healing process after trauma, ultimately enhancing your adrenal system.
This diagram shows us the areas that we focus on for overall well-being. As we become satisfied that all of these domains are good our well-being is improved.
Taking the Next Step
Looking at the diagram above can you identify areas that you would like to improve? Perhaps you could journal or make a list of the things you want to improve and some steps to get you started?
Perhaps focusing on one at a time or one thing for each domain?
If you would like to engage with me to support you to reduce your Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms and heal your trauma you can reach out by booking a 15 minute Free Connection Call. It may also be helpful to check out my Yoga - Healing Trauma Online course. There is a Yoga Healing trauma course specifically to address Reducing Adrenal Fatigue
