Modern understanding of dsm increasingly centers on the nervous system — specifically, the chronic dysregulation that underlies many dsm presentations.
The Nervous System in DSM
The autonomic nervous system has two primary states relevant to dsm:
Sympathetic activation ('fight or flight'): When chronically activated, drives anxiety-type dsm
Parasympathetic ('rest and digest'): The recovery state — undermined by dsm
Dorsal vagal shutdown: A third state — freeze/collapse — associated with depression-type dsm
Signs of Nervous System Dysregulation in DSM
Chronic hyperarousal (always 'on edge'), difficulty relaxing even in safe environments, and feeling perpetually exhausted despite rest.
Regulating the Nervous System for DSM
- Breathwork: Directly activates the parasympathetic nervous system
- Cold exposure: Controlled cold activates the vagus nerve, improving dsm
- Safe social engagement: Co-regulation through trusted relationships
- Movement: Discharges sympathetic activation accumulated in dsm