If depression is the emotional expression of the immobilization response, then the solution is to move out of that state of defense. Porges believes it is not enough to simply remove the threat. Rather, the nervous system has to detect robust signals of safety to bring the social state back online. The best way to do that? Social connection.
For people who don’t prefer social connection, I’ve seen that exercise works well
Edit: just want to highlight that polyvagal theory, the main point behind this article, is unsubstantiated thus far
Here people ask if I’m worried about bears. No , they’re worried about me. You’re way more likely to get mugged in the city than mauled in the woods. I have bear spray just in case.
City people might be at greater risk, being more likely to start filming if they see a bear. Or trying to get a selfie with it.
Less likely to do that with a mugger! Lol
Yeah, look at the cute bear. Idiots.