You’ve shown traits for both the FLIGHT and FAWN trauma responses. It’s common for the nervous system to react differently in different situations, yet we usually rely on one primary pattern under stress. After reading through the information below, notice over the coming days or weeks whether you tend to respond with freeze or flight when your nervous system feels overactivated.
When you’re in “flight” mode, your nervous system urges you to escape the threat. You might feel an overwhelming need to move, run, or get away, physically or emotionally. Deep down, your body believes safety lies in motion.
Common symptoms you may experience:
Physical:
• Restlessness or jittery energy
• Rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing
• Trouble relaxing or sleeping
Mental:
• Racing thoughts or overthinking
• Difficulty focusing or staying present
Emotional:
• Anxiety or panic sensations
• Fear of being trapped or stuck
Behavioral:
• Staying constantly busy or distracted
• Avoidance of conflict or emotional intimacy
• Impulsive changes in jobs, plans, or relationships
There’s nothing wrong with this response.
It’s protective and adaptive—your body is trying to keep you safe by helping you move away from danger.
Flight energy is your system’s way of saying,
“Let’s get to safety.”
When harnessed, this same energy can transform into momentum, creativity, and motivation.
What it truly needs is your understanding.
The chance to slow down, breathe, and create safety—without always needing to run.
When you’re in “fawn” mode, your nervous system seeks safety through connection and appeasement. You might over-accommodate others, avoid conflict, or lose yourself trying to keep the peace. Deep down, your body believes harmony = safety.
Common symptoms you may experience:
Physical:
• Tension in the chest or stomach
• Fatigue from overextending yourself
Mental:
• Difficulty knowing what you want
• Overanalyzing others’ moods or reactions
Emotional:
• Anxiety around disapproval or rejection
• Guilt when prioritizing your own needs
Behavioral:
• People-pleasing or over-apologizing
• Avoiding conflict or disagreement
• Neglecting personal boundaries
• Feeling resentful or burnt out
There’s nothing wrong with this response.
Fawning is an intelligent strategy for staying connected when safety felt uncertain.
It’s your body’s way of saying, “Connection keeps me safe.”
When understood, this same energy can become a source of empathy, care, and compassion.
What it truly needs is your awareness.
The space to set boundaries, honor your truth, and connect authentically—without abandoning yourself.
