Is Your Nervous System Stuck in Survival Mode?

This is not a diagnostic tool. It’s meant to increase awareness of how stress and past experiences can affect the nervous system over time.

In the past 3 - 6 months, how often have you noticed the following?

____ I feel “on edge” or tense even when nothing is obviously wrong.

____ I stay busy or productive but feel emotionally exhausted.

____ I have trouble relaxing, even during downtime.

____ My sleep feels light, restless, or unrefreshing.

____ I overthink conversations or decisions long after they happen.

____ I feel irritable, numb, or disconnected from others.

____ My body holds stress (tight jw, shoulders, headaches, stomach issues).

____ I feel guilty for resting or slowing down.

____ I tell myself “others have it worse, so I shouldn’t complain”.

____ I feel motivated by pressure or urgency rather than choice.

If you checked 3 or more…

Your nervous system may be spending more time in survival mode than in rest and recovery - even if you’re functioning well on the outside.

Why This Matters

Chronic stress and unresolved experiences don’t just live in our thoughts - they live in the nervous system. Over time, this can impact mood, focus, sleep, relationships, and physical health.

The Good News

Nervous systems are adaptable. With the right support, they can learn to feel safe, grounded, and regulated again. Trauma-informed therapies, including EMDR, focus on helping the nervous system process stress and past experiences - not just talk about them.

Read about EMDR services and contact Beacon EMDR to learn more.