The nervous system is the body’s command center, constantly scanning for signs of safety or threat and controlling how we respond — whether we feel calm, anxious, shut down, or on edge. When we experience chronic stress, trauma, or hormonal shifts, the nervous system can get “stuck” in survival modes like fight, flight, or freeze, even when we’re no longer in danger.

“I used to have it together. I felt sharp and on top of things, able to handle life. Now I can’t focus, I’m forgetful, I lose track of things, I forget words, I procrastinate, I feel anxious and easily overwhelmed.” You are not broken! You’re going through massive neuro-hormonal shifts that affect every part of your being. Let’s break down what’s happening, why it can feel like ADHD, brain fog, or burnout, and what you can do to help yourself.

When your nervous system learns that love must be earned, safety is fragile, and your needs are dangerous, you become overly helpful, endlessly agreeable, quietly resentful, and afraid to take up space.