top of page
Jenna Joseph

What is Hypervigilance?

What is Hypervigilance?


Hypervigilance is the state of constantly assessing your surroundings for potential threats. People experiencing Hypervigilance may exhibit a variety of physical and or behavioral symptoms. Noticing potential dangers in our surroundings originally started out as a survival mechanism, but now that skill has turned into a detrimental aspect of life for some people. It is important to note that Hypervigilance is not a disease, it is a symptom of other mental health conditions and/or trauma. Numerous treatment options ranging from therapy to medication are available


How does Hyper-Vigilance manifest?


Those with hyper-vigilance manifest through symptoms such as anxiety disorders, panic disorders, substance/medication-induced anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, Schizophrenia, dementia, PTSD, and paranoia.


Life with Hypervigilance


People who live with Hypervigilance may experience physical symptoms such as


  • An increased startle reflex( they will be spooked easily)

  • An elevated blood pressure

  • Dilated pupils

  • An increased Heart Rate

  • Trouble sleeping


They may also experience mental symptoms such as

  • An abnormally high fixation on safety

  • The feeling of constantly being on edge

  • An obsessive avoidance to avoid possibly stressful situations

  • An overestimation of threats and dangers


Comentarios


bottom of page