You’ve shown traits for both the FLIGHT and FREEZE 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 “freeze” mode, your nervous system hits the brakes. You might feel stuck, numb, or disconnected, like your body and mind have paused. Deep down, your system believes stillness = survival.
Common symptoms you may experience:
Physical:
• Low energy or chronic fatigue
• Shallow breathing or holding your breath
• Feeling cold or heavy in your body
Mental:
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Trouble making decisions
Emotional:
• Numbness, emptiness, or disconnection
• Shame for not “doing enough”
Behavioral:
• Withdrawal or isolation
• Dissociation or “checking out”
• Difficulty starting or finishing tasks
There’s nothing wrong with this response.
Freeze is a deeply protective mechanism.
It’s your body’s emergency brake when action feels impossible.
This response whispers,
“It’s safer to pause than to push.”
With understanding, you can begin to welcome back gentle movement, safety, and aliveness.
What it truly needs is your patience.
The chance to ground, breathe, and trust your pace as your system slowly reawakens.
