A hidden trauma epidemic: The need for public health to look beneath the surface
image: The Hidden Trauma Epidemic image
Credit: Hudson, M.
Undiagnosed trauma may be the most major blind spot in modern healthcare. A new study published in Healthcare and Rehabilitation argues that a vast number of people are suffering from unrecognised trauma that presents not as emotional distress, but as persistent physical symptoms, often misdiagnosed or dismissed.
“Doctors are trained to look for disease, not the imprint of a distressing moment buried deep in the subconscious,” says Matt Hudson, lead author and co-founder of Mind Help Limited. “But it’s often that emotional memory that’s driving the symptoms.”
The authors introduce the concept of Emotional Memory Images (EMIs) split-second, subconscious imprints created during first-time overwhelming experiences. These imprints can distort perception, trigger stress responses, and lead to long-term psychophysiological symptoms, such as sleep issues, pain, and anxiety.
“Our breakthrough is the proposed intervention: Split-Second Unlearning, a method designed to rapidly identify and clear EMIs using digital tools like eye-tracking,” shares Hudson. “One session can often lead to measurable change. This shifts the paradigm from long-form talk therapy to fast, targeted relief.”
The authors also recommend trauma screening to be made standard in healthcare — not just for those who show obvious signs, but for the broader public. “Trauma doesn’t always scream. Sometimes, it whispers through insomnia or autoimmune dysfunction,” adds Hudson.
This study sheds light on the health consequences of unresolved, undiagnosed trauma, and offers a path forward that’s fast, effective, and scalable.
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Contact author name: Matt Hudson, Co-Founder Mind Help Limited, UK. matt@matthudson.com
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