Our nervous systems are designed to respond to stress and failure, and it’s these experiences that build resilience. The concept of nervous system regulation will be familiar to those interacting with the online mental health sphere. While greater awareness of the impact of chronic nervous system dysregulation is essential, it has become a buzzword and much of the nuance and meaning has been lost. In the online world of well-being, regulation is often heralded as a state in which we should live our lives, but this is impossible. While it is important to reflect on environments, people, and t ..read more

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to trauma treatment – trauma is a deeply personal and complex experience that manifests differently in each individual stemming from various experiences, such as abuse, accidents, natural disasters, assault, combat, and neglect, to name just a few. It affects people in unique ways based on each individual’s psychological makeup, age, gender, life experiences and the type of trauma experienced.[1] The non-linear journey of recovery from trauma can also mean that certain approaches are more appropriate at different stages in the journey. One methodology re ..read more

At Khiron Clinics, the modalities used are carefully considered and align with our Polyvagal-informed approach to addressing trauma.  The type of trauma that we experience, and our body’s subsequent response, can vary widely, so a diverse combination of practices is required to create individualised programs that empower and engage each client. The names of these approaches may make them seem daunting and complicated, but here we explain each one in detail. Demystifying these processes, and ensuring the client’s awareness, understanding and control is essential in the context of trauma ..read more

Emotional detachment following the loss of a loved one represents a transitional phase between the initial shock of bereavement and the eventual adjustment to life without them. While society expects mourning to involve feelings of intense anger or sadness, experiencing numbness is a common response. If you find yourself in this emotional state, know that you are not alone. Despite what the media depicts, grief is complex and highly individual, and numbness is not a sign of weakness or a lack of compassion. Numbness is a natural response, a shield against overwhelming pain. Why Do Some People ..read more

Functional freeze is when we become numb to emotions, sensations, and needs as a result of overwhelm, chronic stress, or emotional exhaustion. It occurs when we learn to disconnect from ourselves and disengage with the stress so the ‘shutdown’ freeze response becomes our main operating default when stress hits a certain level. Externally, we may seem capable, fulfilling obligations, socialising, and maintaining a façade of normalcy. Yet internally, we’re merely going through the motions, driven solely by survival instincts. Our brains and nervous systems operate on primal impulses, accompani ..read more

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated globally on March 8th each year, recognising and celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. It is also a day to raise awareness about gender equality and advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. Today serves as a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges and areas where further action is needed – such as mental health care. IWD is an opportunity to recognise and address the unmet needs in women’s mental health care, and to bring attentio ..read more

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress or excessive workload, particularly in professional or caregiving roles. It causes feelings of cynicism and detachment, which can lead to intense overwhelm and a sense of feeling depleted. Burnout manifests as fatigue, reduced motivation, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and physical pain. It often results from chronic workplace stress, but it can also occur in other areas of life where there is a persistent imbalance between demands and resources. If left unaddressed, burnout can significantly ..read more

The link between phobias and trauma in children is a complex interplay of psychological factors. Traumatic experiences, such as accidents, violence, or natural disasters, can imprint deeply on a child’s psyche, leading to persistent fears and anxieties. These traumas may manifest as specific phobias, such as fear of heights, animals, or enclosed spaces, as the child’s mind seeks to avoid reminders of the traumatic event. Additionally, unresolved trauma can exacerbate existing phobias or trigger new ones. Understanding and addressing the underlying trauma is essential in treating childhood pho ..read more

Hypervigilance is a state of heightened alertness and sensitivity to potential threats. It can profoundly impact day-to-day well-being. People experiencing hypervigilance often suffer from anxiety, stress, and fatigue caused by the nervous system constantly scanning for danger. Sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating are common symptoms of hypervigilance which can deeply affect daily life and mental health. Coping strategies are vital for managing the toll that hypervigilance can have on physical and mental health. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and groundin ..read more

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a powerful tool for healing from trauma, helping survivors by bridging the mind-body connection. Developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine, SE acknowledges that trauma is stored not only in the mind, but also in the body’s sensations and nervous system responses. Through SE, individuals learn to track and regulate bodily sensations associated with trauma, gradually releasing pent-up energy and restoring a sense of safety and resilience. By fostering embodiment—connecting with bodily sensations and experiences—SE facilitates the natural healing processes, empowering individ ..read more