Overview

Hypoarousal is a state in which the nervous system shuts down to conserve energy in response to prolonged or intense stress and trauma. This is in contrast to hyperarousal, though notably, a stressed nervous system may swing abruptly from one to the other. Signs of hypoarousal include:

  • Emotional numbness

  • Low energy or chronic fatigue

  • Brain fog or trouble concentrating

  • Dissociation