Fight, Flight, Freeze, Faint & fawn

Understanding Out Stress Responses.

When we experience a situation that feels threatening, overwhelming or unsafe, our body can respond before we’ve had time to consciously process what is happening.

Understanding them can help us make sense of our reactions, particularly when we find ourselves responding to stressful situations in ways we don’t fully understand.

Stress response – our nervous system is constantly taking in information from our surroundings and assessing whether we are safe. When something is perceived as threatening, the body can rapidly prepare to protect us.

This may involve, changes in our heart rate, breathing, muscle tension, attention and energy levels.

These responses can be useful when we are facing immediate danger, however they can also occur when a situation feels emotionally threatening or reminds us of something difficult from the past.

Fight – preparing to confront.

Flight – needing to get away or distance yourself from whatever feels threatening.

Freeze – feeling unable to act rather than fighting or escaping you may feel stuck, unable to respond or unsure what to do.

Faint – shutting down.

Fawn – trying to keep the peace to respond to perceived threat by trying to please, appease or accommodate others.

Our reactions can be influenced by many factors, including our previous experiences, current circumstances, relationships, environment and how safe or overwhelmed we feel.

With greater awareness and appropriate support, it can become possible to recognise what is happening, understand what may be triggering it, and developing healthier ways of responding.