The Body Keeps the Score

A very informative read, really deep dives into the complexities of trauma and the effects it can have on the individual as well as those around them. Lots of great insight with an overarching message/theme that is saying that all of these people that experience trauma harbour these memories and emotions within themselves, and shows a healthy way to deal with these through care, affection and therapy. This allows those who have experienced trauma to learn how to come to terms with what has happened, instead of the alternative of medicating and taking pills to essentially suppress the trauma.  

I took a lot away from this book, especially how most antisocial/atypical aggressive behaviour can be attributed to some past trauma. Also, the importance of a healthy upbringing and how bad experiences in these formative years can affect an individual for life (a parent or elder causing extreme harm can lead to trust issues with others later on, lack of attention when younger leads to feelings of worthlessness, as have never experienced that safety and connection from family). Also very interesting is the disconnect the mind can have from the body once trauma occurs.

The author was personally involved in much of the research which at times reads a little bit like personal bias in my opinion. Some of the stats and information included seems to be a bit cherry picked in order to prove a point. It started getting a bit repetitive towards the end, felt like I was reading the same stuff over and over again, but was left with the message that when it comes to mental health and issues associated with it, pills and medication is probably the least effective way to treat it, much better to use therapy or connection with others.

Author: Bessel Van Der Kolk