Trauma and Chronic Illness

1. Trauma and Chronic Illness Trauma and Chronic Illness Understanding the Mind Understanding the Mind– –Body Connection Body Connection At Quality Time Institute Quality Time Institute, we recognize that chronic illness is rarely only physical. For many individuals, chronic conditions are deeply intertwined with trauma—whether trauma existed prior to diagnosis or emerged through medical experiences, prolonged stress, or life-altering health changes. Understanding and addressing this connection is essential for meaningful, sustainable healing. The Relationship Between Trauma and Chronic Illness The Relationship Between Trauma and Chronic Illness Trauma impacts the nervous system, immune response, and emotional regulation. When the body remains in a prolonged state of stress, it can contribute to or intensify chronic health conditions. Individuals living with chronic illness often experience trauma related to: Sudden or life-changing diagnoses Repeated medical procedures or hospitalizations Chronic pain, fatigue, or functional limitations Feeling dismissed, misunderstood, or misdiagnosed Loss of identity, independence, or future expectations Over time, these experiences can lead to anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion, and a persistent sense of vulnerability within the body.

2. For many, chronic illness itself becomes a trau For many, chronic illness itself becomes a traumatic experience. matic experience. How Trauma Affects the Body How Trauma Affects the Body Trauma is not only stored in memory—it is stored in the body. Research in neuroscience and psychoneuroimmunology shows that unresolved trauma can dysregulate the autonomic nervous system, contributing to: Persistent fight-or-flight or shutdown responses Increased pain sensitivity and inflammation Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue Emotional numbness or overwhelm Difficulty trusting one’s body or medical systems When trauma remains unaddressed, symptoms may persist or worsen—even alongside appropriate medical care. Our Trauma Our Trauma- -Informed Approach to Chronic Illness Informed Approach to Chronic Illness At Quality Time Institute Quality Time Institute, therapy is grounded in a trauma honors the mind-body connection. Treatment is collaborative, individualized, and paced to support nervous system safety and emotional regulation. trauma- -informed, integrative model informed, integrative model that Our work may include: Trauma-informed psychotherapy Nervous system regulation and grounding practices Mindfulness-based and somatic interventions Processing medical trauma and chronic stress Support with grief, identity changes, and life transitions

3. Strengthening resilience, self-trust, and emotional stability Our goal is not to push the body beyond its limits, but to support healing through understanding, regulation, and compassionate care. Who This Therapy Supports Who This Therapy Supports Trauma-informed therapy for chronic illness may be beneficial if you are living with: Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions Chronic pain or chronic fatigue Gastrointestinal, neurological, or stress-related conditions Post-viral or long-term medical symptoms Emotional distress related to diagnosis or treatment Whether trauma existed before your illness or developed along the way, support is available. Therapy Options: In Therapy Options: In- -Person & Online Person & Online Quality Time Quality Time Institute offers flexible therapy options to meet your needs: Institute offers flexible therapy options to meet your needs: In In- -Person Therapy in San Diego, California Person Therapy in San Diego, California Secure Online Therapy Across California Secure Online Therapy Across California This allows clients to access trauma-informed support regardless of location, mobility limitations, or health-related constraints. You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone

4. Living with chronic illness can feel isolating. Emotional pain is often overlooked, minimized, or misunderstood. At Quality Time Institute Quality Time Institute, we provide a safe, validating space where your experiences are taken seriously and your healing is supported—emotionally, psychologically, and holistically. Take the Next Step Toward Support Take the Next Step Toward Support If you are seeking trauma If you are seeking trauma- -informed therapy for chronic illness, we invite you to connect with informed therapy for chronic illness, we invite you to connect with us. us. In In- -Person: Person: San Diego, CA Online: Online: Available throughout California Website: Website: www.qualitytimeinstitute.com Email: Email: Join@qualitytimeinstitute.com Phone: Phone: (858) 348-7373 ➡ Schedule a consultation Schedule a consultation to explore trauma-informed care ➡ Speak with a licensed therapist Speak with a licensed therapist experienced in chronic illness ➡ Begin therapy Begin therapy in a supportive, compassionate, and professional environment