Researchers like Martin Teicher (2000) have readily established that there is both neurobiology and epidemiology evidence that indicates repeatedly that early life stress and adverse experiences (defined as: physical, sexual, emotional abuse as well as household exposure to alcohol or other substance abuse, parental mental illness, violent treatment of mother or stepmother; criminal behavior in the household and parental separation or divorce) can cause enduring brain dysfunction that, in turn, affects health and quality of life throughout the lifespan.

Two significant parts of the brain that can be dysregulated as a result of the adverse experiences with which many children seem to have more than a passing familiarity are the Diencephalon and the Limbic system of the brain. These two systems possess a multitude of functions and possibilities, and a complexity that is beyond the scope of this article. However it may be helpful for the reader to understand that these systems of the brain carry on vital roles in attachment and in eating and food usage.

The Diencephalon is that part of the brain tasked with coordinating and regulating all functional activity except the sense of smell. This system serves as the switchboard of the brain where integration of the Autonomic Nervous System is maintained. This means that there is a steady influence by this part of the brain on effectual or emotional expression. Many of what would be considered habituated behavioral patterns, as well as food cravings and eating behavior are highly influenced if not primarily controlled by this part of the brain.

When the Diencephalon is dysregulated it can lead to altered states of consciousness, perceptual shifts, hormonal imbalances, and neurogenic storms which are sometimes labeled as mystery pain.

Some refer to the Diencephalon as an energy Czar which is responsible for assuring that the human being that is being stressed possesses adequate energy to flee, or fight as the case may be. How this energy management functions can be somewhat problematic. First it jumps the cravings for high calorie and fatty foods. This is followed by applying the brake to slow the speed of one’s metabolism, and then finishes off the process with a hormonal reduction in indigenous opiods “endorphins” The outcome is weight gain and mild to moderate feelings of depression. This may well account for the growing numbers of obese children in the westernized cultures where high levels of stress and adverse experiences are manifest in the lives of children all most daily.

Were you or someone you know a victim of a childhood trauma? Are there elements of this story that can relate to, either directly or as a direct result of your relationship with a loved one?