A review by maarsargo
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk
dark
emotional
informative
sad
slow-paced
4.0
TW: rape, incest, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, violence, drug use
WHAT I LIKED:
• Ch. 10 (Developmental Trauma) was fascinating to read. Trauma during childhood can have far-reaching effects that aren’t seen as much in adult trauma, such as brain development and immune response.
• Part 5 (Paths to Recovery) provided a number of strategies and methods to help survivors cope and heal. This section was particularly helpful and insightful.
• "The problem is the solution." This idea sparked a known but hidden revelation inside of me. Many of the problems people have (eating disorders, substance use, etc.) are solutions to the greater problems they're facing underneath. The visible issues are only the tip of the iceberg; they’re mechanisms for survival in a different context. I can say without a doubt this will influence how I treat/manage patients in the future.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
• For anyone with unresolved trauma, this book is incredibly triggering. Some stories include graphic details or horrifying glimpses into lived experiences that may cause survivors to relive their own trauma.
• In some cases, van der Kolk uses a disturbing matter-of-fact tone when describing the abuse his patients' endured. His words felt light, untroubled. It was difficult for me to stomach how someone could be so passive and nonchalant about the intimate details of unthinkable abuse.
• In many instances, the author refers to his patients as "organisms", which served to rob them of parts of their humanity. Patients are not organisms: they're people, humans, souls.
• Dr. van der Kolk has a history of creating hostile work environments for women and has been let go from one of his positions. This is a friendly remind to keep bias in mind when evaluating research and treatments, especially between genders.
WHAT I LIKED:
• Ch. 10 (Developmental Trauma) was fascinating to read. Trauma during childhood can have far-reaching effects that aren’t seen as much in adult trauma, such as brain development and immune response.
• Part 5 (Paths to Recovery) provided a number of strategies and methods to help survivors cope and heal. This section was particularly helpful and insightful.
• "The problem is the solution." This idea sparked a known but hidden revelation inside of me. Many of the problems people have (eating disorders, substance use, etc.) are solutions to the greater problems they're facing underneath. The visible issues are only the tip of the iceberg; they’re mechanisms for survival in a different context. I can say without a doubt this will influence how I treat/manage patients in the future.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
• For anyone with unresolved trauma, this book is incredibly triggering. Some stories include graphic details or horrifying glimpses into lived experiences that may cause survivors to relive their own trauma.
• In some cases, van der Kolk uses a disturbing matter-of-fact tone when describing the abuse his patients' endured. His words felt light, untroubled. It was difficult for me to stomach how someone could be so passive and nonchalant about the intimate details of unthinkable abuse.
• In many instances, the author refers to his patients as "organisms", which served to rob them of parts of their humanity. Patients are not organisms: they're people, humans, souls.
• Dr. van der Kolk has a history of creating hostile work environments for women and has been let go from one of his positions. This is a friendly remind to keep bias in mind when evaluating research and treatments, especially between genders.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape, Incest, Self harm, Trafficking, Domestic abuse, Violence, Torture, Suicidal thoughts, Sexual violence, Sexual assault, Physical abuse, Kidnapping, Gun violence, and Emotional abuse