The fight or flight response is our body’s reaction to a life-threatening situation. It is an evolutionary survival mechanism, in that it prepares our body to either stay and ‘fight’, take ‘flight’ from the situation or ‘freeze’.
When our brain senses a threat (whether real or perceived) it activates our parasympathetic nervous system to respond to this perceived threat. Our heart rate may speed up, we may start to sweat, become flushed, our digestion will slow down, our appetite might be reduced, etc. These are all mechanisms that would help us when faced with a genuinely threatening situation. The fight or flight response also involves psychological mechanisms. For example, you might become more ‘alert’, with your brain’s attention narrowing and focusing on the current threat.
Anxiety disorders and fight or flight
The fight or flight response exists to help us when faced with a life-threatening situation. However in cases of heightened anxiety symptoms or an anxiety disorder the fight or flight response can go into overdrive. If getting out of bed, going to school, socialising, eating and/or going to sleep are highly anxiety-inducing and thus processed in the same way as a life-threatening situation, we might go into a constant state of fight or flight. This can result in exhaustion, digestive issues, migraines as well as other symptoms. Being in a constant or prolonged state of fight or flight can make it difficult to concentrate at school, socialise, sleep well and generally be a healthy and happy child.
Sensory overload and fight or flight
Many individuals with autism and/or ADHD can experience sensory overload. This occurs when the brain is receiving too much sensory input and is unable to process it. This can cause the brain to feel as though it is under threat and thus go into fight or flight mode. Children in fight or flight mode due to sensory overload may have a meltdown (‘fight’), try to escape the situation or hide (‘flight’) or shut down (‘freeze’). They may experience all the physical symptoms of fight or flight such as sweating, increased heart rate etc. and they may be unable to focus on anything other than the perceived threat (eg the loud noise).
There are ways in which we can help to reduce the occurrence of sensory overload as well as symptoms of anxiety and/or prolonged fight or flight. Identifying sensory triggers, and working with an OT to make accomodations at home or school are just some examples. An OT can also recommend sensory tools that can be used to reduce the effects of sensory overload. Other things that can be helpful for managing anxiety may include breathing exercises such as mindfulness and meditation practices, and prioritising self care, such as getting enough sleep and eating properly.
We hope we could provide some insight into the fight or flight response and how it might relate to your child. With the right tools and support, children can reduce feelings of anxiety and live happier, calmer lives.