Fight or flight is a term that you may have heard. On one hand it is part of the reason your ancestors were probably able to make it through some really scary and dangerous moments. On the other hand many of us because of the trauma we’ve endured in our lasts are stuck in this mode and it is causing issues in our life and recovery journey. Here let’s dive deeper into a topic that needs to be discussed more as so many are impacted.
Fight or flight impacts us both mental as well as physically. It is important to understand the impact at both levels so let’s take a look at some specefic symptoms. Fight or flight is a natrul reaction to perceived threats. Physically a person may feel an increase in heart rate, blood flow and energy due to a release of adrenaline. Mentally a person may experience heightened awareness while focusing on survival. Some emotions a person may experience are fear, anxiety and anger as well. Can you relate to any of these in certain moments of your life?
Now let’s discuss the triggers of a person who is n fight or flight. External threats can trigger immediately. Any sense of danger or conflict. Also internal triggers such as memories or certain thoughts. It is important to note that personal history and experience can have a direct influence on triggers. Take a moment to reflect as part of your recovery plan what potential triggers may exist and how you can proactively address or avoid them altogether.
In terms of impact on a person’s recovery journey both short term effects and long terms effects can occur. Short term immediate reaction can cause a an influx emotions. Long term can lead to chronic stress and potential mental health issues. That is why it’s important to recognize triggers which will enable you to proactively address anything that could lead to causing negative impacts in your life.
Coping strategies that can be used in moments where fight or flight seems to be taking over are as follows…
One can practice mindfulness techniques. Breathing excercises to ground oneself as well as meditation to ease anxiety. Physical activity such as excercise helps with stress relief and emotional regulation in the form of journaling are both extremely helpful when it comes to combatting fight or flight and continuing down the path of recovery.
I encourage everyone reading this to reflect on your very own personal experiences when it comes to fight or flight along your recovery journey. How were you impacted? What strategies did you use to combat those negative feeling moments? Take note and even write it down. Including as much description about these moments may help you process certain anxiety making your path forward easier when it comes to your triggers.
In conclusion, not only is it important to understand fight or flight response in recovery, it’s important to know that you don’t have to operate from
that perspective in life. Recognizing your triggers can empower you along your recovery journey.To do this is to take a great step in your sobriety and overall life in general. Hopefully you got some information that you
can apply going forward. You can overcome being caught up in fight or flight.
