Research shows that frequent exposure to stress can have a powerful effect on the nervous system. One helpful way to understand this is through Dr. Dan Siegel’s Window of Tolerance model.
The window of tolerance describes the range in which a person can handle stress effectively. When we’re within this window, we’re able to think clearly, manage emotions, and respond to challenges without becoming overwhelmed.
What Happens Under Ongoing Stress
When someone experiences repeated or intense stress—especially traumatic events—their window of tolerance can begin to shrink. This makes it harder for the nervous system to return to a calm, regulated state.
People may find themselves stuck in one of two stress responses:
- Hyperarousal, which can feel like anxiety, anger, panic, irritability, or being constantly on edge
- Hypoarousal, which may show up as emotional numbness, exhaustion, withdrawal, or depression
Both responses are signs that the nervous system is working overtime to protect the body.
High-Stress Professions and the Nervous System
For active-duty military members, veterans, and first responders, high-stress situations are often part of the job. Over time, constant exposure to danger, urgency, or trauma can make these nervous system responses feel like a normal part of daily life.
As stress continues, the window of tolerance may narrow even further. This can make it harder to recover or feel grounded—even during time off or at home.
Supporting the Nervous System
The good news is that the nervous system can be supported and strengthened. There are effective ways to widen the window of tolerance and improve stress regulation over time.
Helpful tools include:
- Controlled breathing and mindfulness practices, which can calm the nervous system in the moment
- Evidence-based treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which help the nervous system process and recover from repeated stress and trauma
With the right support, it becomes easier to stay regulated and resilient.
You’re Not Broken
If your stress responses feel overwhelming, it’s important to know this: there is nothing “wrong” with you. Your nervous system is responding exactly as it was designed to in the face of ongoing high-stress situations.
How Labyrinth Can Help
At Labyrinth, our clinicians are trained to work specifically with active-duty military members, veterans, and first responders. Treatment is tailored to the realities of these roles, with a focus on widening the window of tolerance. Our goal is to help individuals better manage work-related stress and feel more present, balanced, and connected outside of the job.
Derrick Higgs
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