What feeling is common during a somatic flashback?

During a somatic flashback, individuals often experience sensations that are deeply tied to past traumatic events. These flashbacks are not just mental memories but can manifest physically and emotionally, often invoking intense feelings associated with the original trauma.

Panic and fear are common reactions during such flashbacks because the individual may feel as if they are reliving a traumatic experience. This can lead to heightened anxiety, the return of distressing memories, and a physical response akin to a fight-or-flight reaction. The body can exhibit symptoms such as increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, or a sense of impending doom.

Understanding this emotional response is crucial for recognizing the effects of trauma on a person's mental state and the bodily sensations that accompany such distressing recollections.