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