Yes, people with trauma or Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) can get triggered by a massage or other physical touch experiences. Trauma survivors may have heightened sensitivity to certain stimuli, and a massage, which involves physical contact and relaxation, can evoke strong emotional and physical reactions.
Here are a few reasons why a massage might trigger negative emotions or feelings in individuals with trauma or C-PTSD:
Touch Sensitivity: Trauma survivors may be hypersensitive to touch due to past experiences of physical abuse, boundary violations, or other traumatic events. Massage involves physical contact, and for some, this can be uncomfortable or triggering.
Loss of Control: During a massage, individuals typically relinquish control as the massage therapist touches their body. For someone with a history of trauma, this loss of control might trigger feelings of vulnerability or reawaken memories of past traumatic events where they had no control over what was happening to them.
Repressed Memories: Physical touch, especially in sensitive areas, can act as a trigger and bring back repressed memories of past traumatic experiences that the individual might have dissociated from.
Body Memories: Trauma can be stored in the body, and certain touch experiences can activate what is referred to as "body memories." These are physical sensations or feelings associated with past traumatic events.
Hyperarousal or Hypoarousal: Touch can elicit different responses in trauma survivors. Some may experience hyperarousal, which involves feeling anxious, on edge, or overwhelmed. Others may experience hypoarousal, feeling numb, disconnected, or dissociated from their body.
Boundary Issues: Past trauma can disrupt a person's ability to establish and maintain healthy boundaries. A massage, especially if the individual feels uncomfortable asserting their preferences, can trigger boundary-related distress.
If someone with trauma or C-PTSD is considering a massage, it's essential for them to communicate their concerns and boundaries with the massage therapist beforehand. A trauma-informed massage therapist will understand the potential triggers and work with the individual to create a safe and comfortable environment.
Moreover, trauma survivors can find other therapeutic approaches that help them cope with trauma and its triggers, such as talk therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy or trauma-focused therapy), somatic experiencing, or other body-centered practices tailored to their unique needs and comfort levels.
Remember, each person's experience with trauma is different, and what may trigger one individual might not affect another in the same way. The key is to prioritize self-care, communication, and seeking support from professionals who are well-versed in trauma-informed approaches.