BETSHY

Tag: Trauma

  • The Psycho-Epigenetics of Pace of Life Syndrome: How Life Events Shape Identity, Personality, and the Biology of Mortality

    The Psycho-Epigenetics of Pace of Life Syndrome: How Life Events Shape Identity, Personality, and the Biology of Mortality

    Pace of Life Syndrome is directly linked to the already published blog posts about Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and allostatic load. This article explores the psycho-epigenetics of Pace of Life Syndrome in depth — examining how early adversity and life events encode themselves biologically through epigenetic mechanisms, how these mechanisms shape identity and personality across the lifespan, and how death anxiety intersects with and amplifies this framework to produce measurable consequences for psychological and physical health.

    Advertisements

    Epigenetics is the study of how outside influences can change the way our genes work without changing our DNA itself. It looks at how things in our environment—like what we eat, how much stress we feel, our daily habits, and our life experiences—can turn genes on or off. These changes can affect how our cells work and how we develop, and they can sometimes be passed on to future generations. Among the most profound reorientations in contemporary psychological and biological science is the recognition that human identity, personality, and health outcomes are not fixed properties of genetic inheritance alone — they are dynamic, experience-dependent, and continuously rewritten by the events, environments, and relationships that constitute a human life.

    The emerging field of psycho-epigenetics—the study of how our psychological experiences can cause lasting changes in how our genes are expressed, without changing the DNA sequence itself—now shows, at the level of our cells, how this process works (Cowell, 2019 ). When this framework is combined with the evolutionary model called the Pace-of-Life Syndrome (PoLS)—which suggests that organisms adjust their whole biological and behavioural profile in response to early-life conditions of adversity and unpredictability—it offers a clear and clinically important explanation of how lived experience shapes who we become(Réale et al., 2018), in our very bodies …

    Subscribe to continue reading

    Read more of this exclusive content when you subscribe today.

    Subscribe

    References

    Cobre, B. et al. (2025) Molecular Insights into Trauma: A Framework of Epigenetic Pathways to Resilience Through Intervention. Available at: https://bradleycobre.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Molecular-insights-into-trauma_A-framework-of-epigenetic-pathways-to-resilience-through-intervention.pdf (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Cowell, W.J. (2019) ‘Epigenetic Modifications in Stress Response Genes Associated With Childhood Trauma’, Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 808. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00808/full (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Epel, E.S., Blackburn, E.H., Lin, J., Dhabhar, F.S., Adler, N.E., Morrow, J.D. and Cawthon, R.M. (2004) ‘Accelerated telomere shortening in response to life stress’, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 101(49). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC534658/ (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Frontiers in Psychology (2025) ‘Psychological and behavioural responses to death anxiety in older adults with chronic illnesses: a systematic integrative review’, Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1684385. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1684385/full (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    GeroScience (2025) ‘Epigenetic age acceleration and mortality risk prediction in US adults’, GeroScience. Springer Nature. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11357-025-01604-x (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Glick, D. et al. (2025) ‘From trauma to resilience: psychological and epigenetic adaptations in the third generation of Holocaust survivors’, Scientific Reports, 15. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-12085-5 (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Kaminsky, Z. et al. (2024) ‘On the role of epigenetic modifications of HPA axis in posttraumatic stress disorder and resilience’, Journal of Neurophysiology, 131(5). Available at: https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/jn.00345.2024 (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Lindqvist, D., Epel, E.S., Mellon, S.H., Penninx, B.W., Révész, D., Verhoeven, J.E., Reus, V.I., Lin, J., Mahan, L., Hough, C.M., Rosser, R., Wolkowitz, O.M. (2015) ‘Childhood Adversities Are Associated with Shorter Telomere Length at Adult Age both in Individuals with an Anxiety Disorder and Controls’, PLOS ONE. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2876034/ (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Međedović, J. (2023) ‘Pace-of-Life Syndrome (POLS)’, in Shackelford, T.K. (ed.) Encyclopedia of Sexual Psychology and Behavior. Cham: Springer. Available at: https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-031-08956-5_1677-1 (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Otto, B., Kokkelink, L. and Brüne, M. (2021) ‘Borderline Personality Disorder in a “Life History Theory” Perspective: Evidence for a Fast “Pace-of-Life-Syndrome”‘, Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 715153. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8350476/ (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Perroud, N. et al. (2018) ‘Epigenetics in Personality Disorders: Today’s Insights’, Frontiers in Psychiatry. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6252387/ (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Qiu, J. and Xu, X. (2025) ‘On the effectiveness of Buddhist view of life and death in regulating mortality salience’, Frontiers in Psychology, 15, 1523125. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11751067/ (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Réale, D., Garant, D., Humphries, M.M., Bergeron, P., Careau, V. and Montiglio, P.O. (2010) ‘Personality and the emergence of the pace-of-life syndrome concept at the population level’, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 365(1560), pp. 4051–4063. Available at: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/abs/10.1098/rstb.2010.0208 (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Réale, D., Montiglio, P.O., Dingemanse, N.J. and Moiron, M. (2018) ‘Pace-of-life syndromes: a framework for the adaptive integration of behaviour, physiology and life history’, Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology, 72, 116. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00265-018-2473-y (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

    Seattle Anxiety Specialists (2023) How Mortality Changes Our Behaviors: Insights from Death Anxiety Research. Available at: https://seattleanxiety.com/psychiatrist/2023/7/10/how-mortality-changes-our-behaviors-insights-from-death-anxiety-research (Accessed: 25 July 2026).

  • The Psychological Trauma of Being Arrested: Understanding Its Impact

    The Psychological Trauma of Being Arrested: Understanding Its Impact

    As someone who has worked with trauma survivors and lived through my own mental health challenges, I know how deeply an arrest can wound a person — even when no conviction follows. Being arrested is not just a legal event; it is often a profound psychological trauma that can leave lasting scars on the mind, body, and sense of self.

    Advertisements

    The moment of arrest triggers an immediate and intense activation of the body’s stress response. Handcuffs, physical restraint, public exposure, and the sudden loss of freedom flood the nervous system with cortisol and adrenaline. Many people describe it as feeling like “time stops” or entering a dissociative state. This acute stress can be as traumatic as a physical assault, especially when force is used or the arrest feels unjustified (Geller et al., 2014) .

    For many, the trauma begins with the loss of autonomy. Being placed in handcuffs, searched, and transported in a police vehicle can trigger deep feelings of powerlessness and humiliation. Research shows that individuals who experience arrest often report symptoms similar to those seen in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including intrusive memories, hypervigilance, nightmares, and avoidance behaviours (Sugie and Turney, 2017). The public nature of many arrests adds a layer of social shame that can persist for years.

    The psychological impact extends far beyond the event itself. Even a short period in custody can shatter a person’s sense of safety and trust in the world. For those with pre-existing trauma, an arrest can re-activate old wounds, leading to complex PTSD symptoms. Many report lasting changes in how they view authority figures, institutions, and even their own worth. The stigma of having been arrested — whether charges are dropped or not — can damage relationships, employment prospects, and self-identity (Baćak and Nowotny, 2020).

    Physiologically, the body remembers. Chronic hyperarousal, sleep disturbances, and heightened startle responses are common. Some individuals develop somatic symptoms such as tension headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain as the body continues to hold and convert the unprocessed trauma. Studies on recently arrested individuals show elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use as maladaptive coping mechanisms.

    The trauma is often compounded by systemic factors. Marginalised communities — particularly people of colour, those from low-income backgrounds, and individuals with mental health conditions — experience higher rates of arrest and report more traumatic encounters with law enforcement. This creates a cycle where systemic injustice and personal trauma reinforce each other (Sewell et al., 2021).

    Recovery from arrest-related trauma requires gentle, trauma-informed support. Approaches such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), somatic experiencing, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy can be highly effective. Equally important is social validation — being believed and supported rather than judged or stigmatised.

    In my forensic journey and personal reflections, I have seen how an arrest can fracture a person’s sense of safety in the world. Healing begins when we acknowledge the depth of that wound without shame. If you or someone you love has experienced the trauma of arrest, know that your reactions are normal responses to an abnormal event. You are not broken — you are responding to something that was profoundly violating.

    The trauma of being arrested reminds us how fragile our sense of freedom and dignity can be. By bringing awareness and compassion to this experience, we take an important step toward healing both individuals and the systems that sometimes cause unnecessary harm.

    References

    Baćak, V. and Nowotny, K. M. (2020) ‘Criminal justice contact and health: Does race matter?’, Sociology of Race and Ethnicity, 6(3), pp. 337–352. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0038040720914863 (Accessed: 26 March 2026).

    Geller, A. et al. (2014) ‘Aggressive policing and the mental health of young urban men’, American Journal of Public Health, 104(12), pp. 2321–2327. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103812/ (Accessed: 26 March 2026).

    Sewell, A. A. et al. (2021) ‘Police violence and public health: A review of the literature’, Annual Review of Sociology, 47, pp. 527–548. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8118190/ (Accessed: 26 March 2026).

    Sugie, N. F. and Turney, K. (2017) ‘Beyond incarceration: Criminal justice contact and mental health’, American Sociological Review, 82(4), pp. 719–743. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0003122416687318 (Accessed: 26 March 2026).

  • Acquired Traumatic & Traumatised Narcissism

    Acquired Traumatic & Traumatised Narcissism

    Subscribe to continue reading

    Subscribe to get access to the rest of this post and other subscriber-only content.

  • Darklake Farm in Plymouth is Darker than Black

    Darklake Farm in Plymouth is Darker than Black

    Dear readers, it is with a measured composure that I recount the chapters of my early life in Britain, not as a lament, but as a testament to the unyielding spirit that has propelled me forward. Born amidst the vibrant hues of Colombia, my existence was irrevocably altered when my then stepfather, under the guise of benevolence, orchestrated my horror. As I write this, it is 3rd November, 2025. It’s 22:50 and I am filling a form to access my medical records from the NHS. I am being asked to provide my full list of addresses where I have lived, and I had to Google the postcodes as I did not recall these. I came across the farm business the man who once adopted me owns, and I felt that I had to write about those times between 2006-2007 to finally let go and heal.

    Advertisements

    Subscribe to get access

    Read more of this content when you subscribe today.

    Subscribe
  • Understanding Traumatic Racism: Impact and Long-lasting Effects

    Understanding Traumatic Racism: Impact and Long-lasting Effects

    Racism is a pervasive issue in our society that impacts countless individuals on a daily basis. For many people of colour, racism is not just a theoretical concept or a distant concern – it is a lived experience that can have profound and lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.

    Advertisements

    One particularly insidious form of racism is traumatic racism, in which a person is subjected to repeated instances of racial discrimination, microaggressions, and other acts of bigotry that can result in significant psychological harm. Traumatic racism can manifest in a variety of ways, from overt acts of violence and hatred to more subtle forms of discrimination that chip away at a person’s sense of self-worth and belonging.

    The impact of traumatic racism on individuals can be profound and long-lasting. Research has shown that experiencing racism can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including increased rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. People who are exposed to traumatic racism may also develop a sense of hypervigilance, constantly on guard for potential acts of discrimination or violence.

    One of the most troubling aspects of traumatic racism is that it can often be dismissed or minimised by those who have not experienced it firsthand. People of colour who speak out about their experiences of racism may be accused of exaggerating or playing the “race card,” further compounding their sense of isolation and helplessness.

    It is important for all of us to acknowledge the reality of traumatic racism and to support those who have been affected by it. As a society, we must work together to combat racism in all its forms and to create a more inclusive and equitable world for all people. By listening to and amplifying the voices of those who have experienced traumatic racism, we can begin to build a more just and compassionate society for future generations.

  • How to Feel Emotionally Better After Trauma

    How to Feel Emotionally Better After Trauma

    Experiencing trauma can have a lasting impact on our emotional well-being. Whether it’s a car accident, a natural disaster, or a personal loss, trauma can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and disconnected from ourselves and others. However, it is possible to heal and feel emotionally better after trauma. Here are some strategies to help you begin that healing process.

    Advertisements

    Recovering from trauma is an ongoing journey that requires patience and self-compassion. One important step is seeking professional help, such as therapy or counselling, to address and process the difficult emotions associated with the traumatic experience. Additionally, building a strong support network of friends and family can provide a sense of safety and understanding as you navigate through the healing process.

    First and foremost, it is crucial to seek support. This may come in the form of therapy, support groups, or talking to friends and family members about what you are going through. It is important to have a safe space to express your emotions and feel heard and understood. A therapist can also help you process the trauma and develop coping strategies to manage your emotions.

    It is also important to practise self-care. This may involve engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, journalling, art, or spending time in nature, which can also help to regulate overwhelming emotions and promote a sense of inner peace. Taking care of your physical health can also have a positive impact on your emotional well-being. Make sure to eat nutritious foods, get plenty of sleep, and avoid substances that can worsen your emotions.Taking small steps towards re-establishing a routine and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfilment can gradually rebuild a sense of normalcy and empowerment.

    It can be helpful to practise mindfulness and grounding techniques to stay present and connected to the present moment. This can help you feel more in control of your emotions and reduce anxiety and distress. Breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and focusing on your senses can all help you stay grounded in the here and now.

    Furthermore, understanding the impact of trauma on the brain and body can provide valuable insight into the healing process. Educating oneself on trauma-informed care and learning about the potential triggers and coping strategies can empower individuals to take control of their emotional well-being. Embracing the journey of healing and growth after trauma is a courageous endeavour, and it’s essential to be patient and kind to oneself throughout the process. Remember, healing is possible, and with time and support, emotional well-being can be restored.

    Finally, it is important to be patient with yourself. Healing from trauma is a process that takes time and effort. It is okay to feel a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, and fear. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgement and practice self-compassion.

  • Intergenerational Trauma

    Intergenerational Trauma

    Intergenerational trauma is a topic that has received increasing attention in recent years, as researchers and mental health professionals have started to recognise the profound impact that traumatic experiences can have on multiple generations within a family. This type of trauma can have lasting effects on individuals and families, shaping their beliefs, behaviours, and overall well-being.

    Advertisements

    So what exactly is intergenerational trauma? It refers to the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next, often through behaviours, beliefs, and coping mechanisms that are passed down within families. This can occur in various ways, such as through direct exposure to trauma, witnessing traumatic events, or even through the psychological and emotional impact that trauma has on a parent or caregiver.

    One of the key aspects of intergenerational trauma is the way in which it can manifest in individuals. For example, a person who has experienced trauma may struggle with symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, which can then be passed down to their children or grandchildren. This can create a cycle of trauma within a family, where each generation is affected by the experiences of those who came before them.

    Additionally, intergenerational trauma can also impact the way in which families communicate, relate to one another, and process emotions. Individuals who have experienced trauma may be more likely to engage in dysfunctional or unhealthy behaviours, which can then be perpetuated within their families. This can create a toxic cycle of dysfunction and pain that can be challenging to break.

    It is important to recognise that intergenerational trauma is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a holistic approach to healing. This may involve individual therapy, family therapy, support groups, and other forms of intervention that can help individuals and families process and heal from their traumatic experiences.

    By understanding the impact of intergenerational trauma and seeking help when needed, individuals and families can begin the journey towards healing and breaking the cycle of trauma within their families. It is important to remember that healing is possible, and that with the right support and resources, individuals can overcome the effects of intergenerational trauma and create healthier, happier lives for themselves and future generations.