Expressions of Trauma: Survival Circuit
The survival circuit describes how the brain and body respond to threats. The survival circuit is a normal and natural part of being human. The survival circuit helps us to handle any threats that could threaten our safety. There are four main steps in the circuit:
1
Something that we see, hear, smell, taste or touch alerts the brain that there could be danger. The brain reacts immediately, unconsciously and automatically.
2
The brain sends signals throughout the body to prepare for possible danger. It uses nerve cells that are called the sympathetic nervous system. Just like in step 1, the signals to the body are sent immediately, unconsciously and automatically.
Some examples of how the body reacts to these signals are:
-
- Heart rate increases.
- Breathing gets faster.
- Body starts to sweat.
- Digestion slows down or stops.
3
Other parts of the brain start to look at what is happening and try to gather more information. The brain compares what is happening to memories and other things we know. The brain tries to determine whether the threat is real or not.
4
If the brain decides the threat is not real or that it can be controlled, signals are sent to the body to begin relaxing. Nerve cells in the parasympathetic nervous system help the body to go back to normal.
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.