Co-regulation — the calming of our nervous system through connection with a regulated other — is one of the most powerful and underappreciated compulsive behaviors interventions.
What Co-Regulation Is and Why It Matters for Compulsive Behaviors
Humans are social mammals whose nervous systems are literally designed to be regulated through connection. When someone calm and safe is with us, our nervous systems naturally mirror theirs.
This is why compulsive behaviors tends to worsen in isolation and improve with genuine connection.
Co-Regulation in Compulsive Behaviors Treatment
The therapeutic relationship provides co-regulation — a calm, regulated presence that directly helps the client's nervous system settle during compulsive behaviors.
Safe relationships in daily life serve the same function. This is part of why social isolation is so damaging for compulsive behaviors.
Building Co-Regulatory Relationships for Compulsive Behaviors
- Identify people whose presence tends to calm rather than activate your compulsive behaviors
- Intentionally spend time with these people during difficult compulsive behaviors periods
- Pets provide co-regulation for many people with compulsive behaviors
- Therapeutic relationships (therapist, psychiatrist) provide professional co-regulation