Hypoarousal

The window of tolerance is the range in which we as humans are able to function most effectively. 

When the brain perceives a threat that it does not think you can fight or flee from it is likely to go into a state of collapse, in which you may feel immobilized with fear. 

This is you’re your dorsal vagal circuit gets activated. 

Physical symptoms of hypo-arousal: 

* Immobilization 

* preparing for death 

* increase in pain-reducing endorphins 

* feeling physically numb 

* decrease heart rate & blood pressure 

* slowed breathing 

* fatigue 

* depressed immune response 

* diminished eye contact 

* diminished muscle tone & facial expression 

* increase in storage of fuel 

Mental Symptoms of hypo-arousal: 

* derealization 

* depersonalization 

* depression 

* shut down 

* numbness 

* loss of interest in activities 

* helpless 

* hopeless 

* flat emotion 

* decreased capacity to engage with others 

* despair 

* blank mind 

Coping skills for when you are hypo-aroused: 

* Grounding – particularly using the senses 

* Ask for help 

* Get up and get moving 

* Stretching 

* Rocking 

* Eat crunchy food 

* Smelling strong smells 

* Bouncing – trampoline, yoga ball or jumping jacks 

* Reach out and physically connect 

* Cold glass of water 

* Hold an ice cube 

* Try to balance on one foot 

* Listen to fast/up-beat music 

Each person’s response to threat is unique, which physical or mental symptoms of hypo-arousal did you recognize in yourself? Have you tried all the coping skills listed? If not try some of them out the next time you notice your symptoms. Learn what works for you.