WHAT CAUSES A DYSREGULATED NERVOUS SYSTEM?

Loren Hogue

A dysregulated nervous system can affect your overall well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and a host of other challenges. By knowing the top underlying causes, you can take the first step to regain balance and peace in your life.

Let's explore seven leading causes of a dysregulated nervous system, and how to address them.

1. Chronic Stress

Chronic stress is one of the top causes of a dysregulated nervous system. When stress is prolonged, it changes the body's physiology, leading to an accumulation of unprocessed stress, also known as allostatic load.

This buildup makes the nervous system prone to further dysregulation, which causes people to spend more time in the dysregulated states at the bottom of the NEUROFIT Ring:

Signs: Persistent anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues.

Example: Working long hours without adequate rest can keep the body in a constant state of high alert.

Solution: Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and somatic exercises like Body Tapping or Tree Shaking can reset the nervous system and reduce chronic stress buildup:

2. Unresolved Trauma

Trauma, whether physical or emotional, can significantly impact the nervous system. Events like accidents, abuse, or the loss of a loved one can leave lasting marks on your nervous system until they're addressed properly.

Signs: Flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.

Example: The sudden passing of my father in 2011 led to a decade-long journey of navigating symptoms like anxiety and digestive issues.

Solution: Somatic exercises, somatic therapy and nervous system regulation techniques can aid in processing trauma out of the body.

3. Poor Sleep Quality

Inadequate sleep can wreak havoc on your nervous system. Sleep is when the body repairs itself, and without it, the nervous system becomes less resilient.

Signs: Fatigue, inability to focus, mood swings, and increased stress levels.

Example: Consistently getting less than 7 hours of sleep can lead to chronic tiredness and a weakened immune system.

Solution: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and avoiding screens before bed can improve sleep quality.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle

A lack of physical activity can contribute to nervous system dysregulation. Exercise and movement are key for maintaining a balanced nervous system.

Signs: Low energy, increased stress, and feelings of sluggishness.

Example: Sitting for extended periods without breaks can lead to physical discomfort, mental fatigue, and brain fog.

Solution: Add at least 10 minutes of exercise daily to significantly improve nervous system health. NEUROFIT members who prioritize daily exercise report 22% higher HRV and better emotional balance

5. Poor Nutrition

Your diet has a direct impact on your nervous system. Consuming processed foods, excessive sugar, and lacking essential nutrients can lead to inflammation and imbalances.

Signs: Mood swings, anxiety, and gastrointestinal issues.

Example: Consuming high amounts of sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation, affecting the nervous system.

Solution: Eating a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals supports nervous system health. Our NEUROFIT community data shows that members who prioritize a healthy diet report 30% more balanced check-ins.

6. Social Fatigue

Excessive social interactions, especially with negative individuals, can drain your nervous system. Emotional contagion, where you absorb others' emotions, can lead to dysregulation.

Signs: Irritability, emotional exhaustion, and a desire to withdraw.

Example: Constantly being around stressed or anxious individuals can leave you feeling drained and anxious yourself.

Solution: Setting boundaries and prioritizing alone time can help manage social fatigue. NEUROFIT members who avoid social fatigue report 14% more balanced check-ins.

7. Technology Overload

Constant exposure to screens and digital devices can overstimulate the nervous system. The blue light from screens and the constant influx of information can lead to stress and anxiety.

Signs: Eye strain, headaches, disrupted sleep, and increased stress.

Example: Spending hours on social media or working late into the night on your computer can affect your sleep and stress levels.

Solution: Limiting screen time, especially before bed, and taking regular breaks from technology can help mitigate this issue. NEUROFIT members who avoid online stress report 22% more balanced check-ins.

Personal Insights and NEUROFIT's Approach

Having experienced the debilitating effects of a dysregulated nervous system firsthand for many years, I understand how important it is to address these causes. At NEUROFIT, we focus on making nervous system regulation accessible and effective.

Our app provides simple, science-backed coaching and exercises that can help you achieve greater balance in just a few minutes a day. For example, our average active member reports feeling 54% less stressed after just one week of using the app.

By understanding and addressing the leading causes above, and knowing what affects your nervous system the most, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier and more balanced life.

FAQs

What causes a dysregulated nervous system?

Chronic stress, unresolved trauma, poor sleep quality, a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, social fatigue, and excessive technology use can all cause a dysregulated nervous system.

What are the symptoms of a dysregulated nervous system?

Common symptoms of a dysregulated nervous system include persistent anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, digestive issues, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.

How can I improve my sleep quality to support my nervous system?

Establish a consistent bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable and free from disturbances.

Can proper diet really improve my nervous system?

Yes, a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports nervous system health. Avoiding processed foods and excessive sugar can both reduce inflammation and improve your mood.

By understanding and addressing these causes, you can take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

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