WHAT IS THE OVERWHELM NERVOUS SYSTEM STATE?

Andrew Hogue

Stress and anxiety are familiar terms, but what about the overwhelm nervous system state? This state can leave you feeling paralyzed, unable to perform even the easiest of tasks. As someone who has struggled with Complex PTSD, understanding this state is the first step toward managing it effectively.

What Is the Overwhelm State?

The overwhelm state is a mixed state, combining two other nervous system states: the high-energy Sympathetic state and the low-energy Dorsal Vagal state. When these two states intersect, they create a confusing mix of activation and shutdown.

Imagine feeling both anxious and completely stuck at the same time. If you don't know how to overcome it, this can be a confusing and challenging experience.

Signs and Symptoms of the Overwhelm State

Wondering if you might be experiencing the overwhelm state? Here are some common signs and symptoms:

Emotional Instability: Your emotions may feel completely overpowering.

Physical Fatigue: Getting sleep may be challenging, and when you do, you may still feel tired and sluggish.

Cognitive Fog: Difficulty concentrating and frequent forgetfulness are common.

Anxiety and Panic: Feelings of impending doom or heightened anxiety, often without a clear trigger.

Irritability: Small annoyances can set you off, leading to outbursts of anger or frustration.

Causes of the Overwhelm State

Several factors can push your nervous system into Overwhelm - including chronic stress, traumatic events, and even excessive online stimulation.

Chronic Stress

Ongoing stress can overload your nervous system, making it difficult to return to a balanced state. This is common for people who experience perfectionism or a strong internal drive.

Chronic stress builds up in the body over time, affects our physiology, and leads to feelings of overwhelm and burnout.

Traumatic Events

Past traumas can leave lasting imprints on your nervous system. These imprints can be triggered by seemingly unrelated events, pushing you into Overwhelm.

The National Library of Medicine notes that trauma can have long-term effects on the nervous system, contributing to chronic stress and emotional imbalance.

Digital Overload

Constant exposure to social media, emails, and online news can keep your nervous system in a heightened state of alert, eventually creating Overwhelm. The good news is that the opposite is also true: NEUROFIT App users who avoid online stress also report 22% more balanced check-ins.

Practical Ways to Manage the Overwhelm State

So, what can you do to manage this challenging state? Here are some practical tips that have worked thousands of people in the NEUROFIT community.

Somatic Exercises

Simple somatic exercises are an excellent way to bring your nervous system back to balance. Techniques like Body Tapping, Arm and Leg Squeezes, or Cannon breath can be incredibly effective.

These exercises focus on the body, helping to reset your nervous system. And 95% of our app users are able to overcome real-time stress within just 5 minutes of these exercises:

Limit Digital Exposure

Reducing screen time can have a significant impact on your nervous system. Try setting specific times to check emails and social media, and stick to them.

Physical Activity

Engaging in regular physical activity can help release pent-up energy and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Whether it's a quick walk, yoga, or a more intense workout, moving your body can make a huge difference. Our NEUROFIT App data shows that users who prioritize regular exercise report 22% higher HRV and 11% more balanced check-ins.

Social Play

Engaging in playful activities with friends or family can help balance your nervous system.

Social play blends the high energy of the Sympathetic state with the safety of the Ventral Vagal state, which strengthens the nervous system against the high-energy aspect of Overwhelm.

Consistent Bedtime Routine

A regular sleep schedule can help stabilize your nervous system. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality. Our app data shows that maintaining a consistent sleep-wake cycle can improve your HRV and overall emotional balance.

Personal Insights and NEUROFIT's Approach

Loren and I built NEUROFIT based on our personal challenges with stress and trauma. Our app focuses on nervous system regulation, using a combination of daily check-ins, biometric measurements, data-driven coaching and tailored somatic exercises to help you reduce your Overwhelm effectively.

For example, our data shows that users who engage in 10 minutes of daily stillness report 27% more balanced check-ins and 5% higher HRV. As our data has shown, these small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements in nervous system health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Overwhelm nervous system state?

The Overwhelm nervous system state is a mix of the high-energy Sympathetic state and the low-energy Dorsal Vagal state, leading to feelings of both anxiety and shutdown.

How do I know if I am in Overwhelm?

Signs include emotional numbness, physical fatigue, cognitive fog, anxiety, panic, hopelessness and irritability. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be in the Overwhelm state.

What can trigger overwhelm?

Chronic stress, past traumas, and excessive digital exposure can all push your nervous system into Overwhelm.

How can NEUROFIT help me manage my overwhelm?

NEUROFIT offers daily check-ins, biometric measurements, and personalized exercises designed to help you re-balance your nervous system effectively.

Understanding the overwhelm nervous system state is the first step toward managing it. With practical strategies and the right tools, you can navigate this complex state effectively.

Balance your nervous system, reduce stress, and feel your best with NEUROFIT.