Unlike trauma, which affects aspects of our behavior and health, shock affects every single component of life and bodily function. Bones, tissues, joints, muscles, immune function, structural alignment, overall energy levels, relationships, intimacy and sexuality-all feel the impact of shock quickly, unpredictably, and eclectically. Gratefully, there is a growing body of literature that reflects the need to inquire into the hidden epidemic of shock. Rising rates of violence and cruelty, coupled with an increase in illnesses, which are unpredictable and impossible to diagnose, are both, I propose, based on this shock wave. The answer to this question will reshape our healthcare, our education, our mental health services, environmental policies, and our attitudes toward crime and punishment.
Shock challenges the physiological limits of all our human systemic functions beyond their capacity.
We see it all around us. Adults with chronic pain or chronic fatigue reflect the impact of shock. Education about shock is actually education about awareness. The message is to wake up. As a people, we need to become ready to identify shock when we see it.