Why Didn’t I React? Understanding the Freeze Response in Women
“Why didn’t I scream?” “Why didn’t I run?” “Why didn’t I fight back?” These questions haunt many women after moments of fear, threat, or violation. They’re often followed by guilt, shame, and harsh self-judgment. But here’s the truth that isn’t talked about enough: Not reacting doesn’t mean you failed. It means your body was protecting you. This is known as the freeze response and it’s far more common in women than we’re led to believe. What Is the Freeze Response? Most of us are familiar with fight or flight. But there’s a third, equally powerful survival response: freeze. The fight flight freeze response is controlled by the nervous system and not conscious thought. When the brain senses danger and believes escape or defense may increase risk, it can momentarily shut down movement, voice, or action. This isn’t weakness. It’s biology. Freezing can look like: ● Being unable to scream or speak ● ...