We are all wired with an internal alarm system that alerts us to potential danger. Put in terms of mindfulness, sometimes Emotion Mind will take over without our consent. The biological structure responsible for generating Emotion Mind resides in the most primitive portion of the brain. The amygdala sits just on top of the brainstem and acts as a threat detection system. When threats are perceived, the amygdala floods the prefrontal cortex with neurotransmitters that temporarily block our ability to use Rational Mind. The whole body is flooded with cortisol and adrenaline to prepare us to eliminate or hide from perceived threats. It is best known as “fight or flight”. The trouble with this system is that it is a little too efficient, setting off the threat alarm when no threat exists.
Our alarm system is a lot like a home security system.
Early childhood experiences program our “fight or flight” system.
Early in life, each of us has experiences that train our amygdala. Unable to assess the severity of the threat on our own, we respond to threats by watching the reactions of others around us. Additionally, the way in which our needs are met also determines the amygdala’s responsiveness. Early childhood trauma can negatively affect us by training our amygdala to over-respond to perceived threats that may not truly be life-threatening.
The Emotional hijacking
As adults we might not understand why we over-react, but the fact remains that amygdala hyper-response happens to all of us. Only our triggers vary. I like to call this an “Emotional hijacking” because the Emotion Mind assumes complete control. We can’t stop it. Suddenly we become completely irrational, much to the dismay of anyone observing the event. It can take a minimum of 30 minutes for our brain chemistry to return to normal and finally allow us to think clearly using Rational Mind again. Below is a diagram of this process.
Feel free to download a copy of this chart: Emotional hijacking PDFAdjusting our alarm’s sensitivity
Just like my friend had to adjust the sensitivity of her home security system, we may need to do the same to our own alarm system. One of the ways to do this is by learning the skills taught in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Watch for more details, coming soon.