Part 1 

In the Prologue and Part One of The Body Keeps the Score, Bessel van der Kolk explains that trauma is not simply an event that happens in the past, but an experience that reshapes the brain and body, leaving a person in a chronic state of alert long after the actual danger has passed (van der Kolk, 2014). His work with trauma survivors, specifically veterans and abused children, van der Kolk shows that traumatized people often struggle with emotional regulation, trust, and a sense of safety in their own bodies (van der Kolk, chs. 1–3). As an elementary teacher, I have seen this firsthand in some of my students from abusive or neglectful homes. Behaviors that on the surface show as defiance, withdrawal, or inattention often are just what van der Kolk describes as survival responses (van der Kolk, 2014). These children have nervous systems are jumpy and disregulated. I always say that children who are safe and loved at home come to school to learn, children are are not safe and loved at home come to school to be loved. A child with a full-throttle fight/flight nervous system has a very hard time focusing on reading and math. Van der Kolk emphasizes the need for safety and stable relationships (van der Kolk, 2014). As a teacher this means that I should aim for consistency, structure, and being a compassionate presence in the classroom.

These chapters also resonate with my own experience as a child and adult survivor of abuse. Years ago, I thought I was past my past but the trauma began to manifest in my physical body by means of panic attacks, night terrors, startle response, and even hives. Van der Kolk explains that such trauma is “re-enacted in the body,” which helps explain these symptoms (van der Kolk, 2014, ch. 3). These physical manifestations can occur even after the actual traumatic event(s) has ended (ch. 3). My own healing from PTSD reflects his central claim that recovery requires more than just cognitive understanding, it requires restoring a sense of safety within the body and in relationships. I am so grateful that I was able to find a gentle and supportive therapist who walked me through the process of healing and feeling safe again! 

Healing often begins when a hurting person encounters a calm, trustworthy person. My own experiences and healing stirred within me a deep compassion and understanding for others, especially children who have been through traumatic events. van der Kolk’s work aligns with my own Catholic understanding of caring for the vulnerable, offering authentic friendship, being patient, giving grace, and always showing dignity, whether in the classroom, at home, or out in the world. In these ways, I hope to be an instrument of healing to others.

van der Kolk, B.A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.