Somatic symptoms of freeze response: Here's what you need to know

From digestive issues to feeling spacey, here are some of the somatic symptoms of the freeze response.

By , Delhi
Published on Apr 27, 2024 06:21 pm IST 5 Photos
1/5

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental condition that happens when we are exposed to traumatic events repeatedly or for a prolonged period of time. "In addition to commonly discussed symptoms like flashbacks, hypervigilance, and difficulty in forming trusting relationships, there are lesser-known manifestations. Individuals with CPTSD might experience a persistent feeling of being fundamentally different from others, along with episodes of depersonalisation and derealisation, where they feel disconnected from themselves or their surroundings," wrote Therapist Maythal Eshaghian.(Unsplash)

2/5

Postural slumping is a way for the nervous system to shut down to preserve energy. Hunched shoulders, rounded posture and struggling to stay straight are some of the symptoms. (Pexels)

3/5

The freeze response of the body often shows up as exhaustion. Being too tired and feeling mentally and physically exhausted throughout the day is the body's way of showing trauma. (Shutterstock)

RECOMMENDED PHOTOS
4/5

Brain fog and feeling spaced out happens and makes us feel that we are not present in the moment. We may find difficulties in concentrating on something. (Unsplash)

5/5

The brain and gut connection can show up as digestive issues. Exposure to too much stress and anxiety can reflect in our gut health. (Unsplash)

RELATED PHOTOS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tapatrisha Das

Tapatrisha is Content Producer with Hindustan Times. She covers stories related to health, relationships, and fashion.

OTHER GALLERIES

The Odyssey New York premiere: Anne Hathaway to Zendaya, what the cast wore

10
Christopher Nolan's epic action drama The Odyssey is all set to hit the screens on July 17. On Tuesday, the cast and crew of the film arrived in New York for the film's grand premiere, dressed in elaborate designer ensembles. Here's a look at who wore what. 
Published on Jul 15, 2026 11:07 am IST

Manish Malhotra's debut collection at Paris Haute Couture Week 2026 in 20 pics

20
Indian designer Manish Malhotra made his debut at the Paris Haute Couture Week with a stunning collection. 
Published on Jul 09, 2026 01:16 pm IST

Inside Rahul Mishra's 'Devi' collection inspired by ancient Indian goddess: Pics

8
Rahul Mishra unveiled his Spring/Summer 2026 couture collection, Devi, at Paris Haute Couture Week, celebrating the divine feminine through sculptural silhouettes, hand embroidery and motifs inspired by centuries-old Indian temple art.
Published on Jul 07, 2026 01:28 pm IST

Selena Gomez to Jennifer Lopez: What celebrities wore to Taylor Swift's wedding

9
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding wasn't just a celebration of love, it was a star-studded fashion affair. From Selena Gomez to Jennifer Lopez, here's who wore what.
Published on Jul 05, 2026 09:23 am IST

Yoga Day 2026: How Akshay Kumar, Shilpa Shetty and other celebs marked the day

11
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar took part in a yoga session on the occasion of the 12th International Day of Yoga at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. He is seen in a meditative pose here. 
Published on Jun 21, 2026 05:07 pm IST

Zendaya, Tom Holland stun in black outfits for Spider-Man: Brand New Day event

8
The press tour for Spider-Man: Brand New Day is officially underway. Lead stars Zendaya and Tom Holland made a stylish appearance at a photocall in Madrid on June 15, kicking off the duo’s highly anticipated press run for the upcoming film.
Published on Jun 15, 2026 06:06 pm IST