The fight-flight-freeze stress response is the biological foundation of many charles bonnet syndrome presentations. Understanding it demystifies charles bonnet syndrome and points toward effective interventions.
The Three Stress Responses in Charles Bonnet Syndrome
Fight: Anger, aggression, irritability — charles bonnet syndrome channeled outward
Flight: Avoidance, escape, withdrawal — the most common charles bonnet syndrome behavioral pattern
Freeze: Paralysis, numbness, shutdown — depression and dissociation-type charles bonnet syndrome
How Chronic Activation Drives Charles Bonnet Syndrome
When the stress response activates repeatedly or doesn't turn off, it creates the chronic physiological state underlying charles bonnet syndrome: elevated cortisol, dysregulated neurotransmitters, disrupted sleep.
Working With Your Stress Response in Charles Bonnet Syndrome
- Name it: 'My nervous system is in fight/flight/freeze right now'
- Move: Physical movement discharges the mobilization energy of fight/flight
- Breathe: Activates the off-switch for the stress response
- Connect: Safe social engagement signals to the nervous system that the threat has passed