The nervous system is our body’s command center, managing everything from physical sensations to emotional responses. When it functions properly, it allows us to respond appropriately to stress, regulate emotions, and maintain balance. However, when the nervous system becomes dysregulated, it can result in chronic stress, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms. Discover compassionate and personalized psychotherapy in Ontario with Robin Shereck, where your journey to healing and emotional well-being is supported every step of the way.
What is Nervous System Dysregulation?
Nervous system dysregulation occurs when the body becomes stuck in a heightened state of stress. Instead of returning to a calm state after experiencing a stressful situation, the body remains in fight, flight, or freeze mode. This ongoing state of hypervigilance can lead to various emotional and physical issues, such as chronic anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and even physical health problems like headaches or digestive issues.
Trauma often plays a significant role in nervous system dysregulation. When we experience trauma, whether it’s from childhood, relationships, or other life events, our bodies may continue to respond as if the trauma is ongoing. Over time, this dysregulation can lead to feelings of overwhelm and emotional instability, leaving individuals unable to effectively cope with daily stressors.
Symptoms of Nervous System Dysregulation
Common signs of nervous system dysregulation include:
- Persistent anxiety or panic attacks
- Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
- Heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, or touch
- Irritability or mood swings
- Chronic fatigue or exhaustion
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Physical symptoms like muscle tension or digestive issues
These symptoms can interfere with everyday life, making it challenging to maintain relationships, perform well at work, or engage in activities you once enjoyed.
How Therapy Can Help
Healing nervous system dysregulation often requires addressing both the mind and body. Therapy approaches such as Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Theory focus on helping individuals reconnect with their bodies and develop a sense of safety. Somatic Experiencing encourages clients to process trauma through bodily awareness, releasing stored tension and restoring the body’s natural ability to regulate stress.
Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, emphasizes the importance of the vagus nerve in emotional regulation. Techniques grounded in this theory aim to stimulate the vagus nerve, encouraging relaxation and a sense of calm. Simple exercises such as deep breathing, mindful movement, and grounding techniques are often taught to help clients manage dysregulation outside of therapy sessions.
Practical Steps to Manage Dysregulation at Home
While therapy is a crucial part of healing, there are steps you can take at home to begin managing nervous system dysregulation. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation are all effective tools for calming the body. Engaging in regular physical activity and spending time in nature can also help reset the nervous system and reduce stress.
By addressing nervous system dysregulation, individuals can regain a sense of control and calm in their lives. Through therapeutic approaches that incorporate both mind and body, such as Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Theory, Robin Shereck helps clients restore balance and heal from trauma. If you’re ready to begin your healing journey, contact Robin for a free consultation.
