Arousal non concordance is a condition where a person experiences physiological arousal (like increased heart rate or sweating) that is not in line with their emotional state. It is a condition that is often overlooked, but can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental and physical wellbeing. In this article, we will discuss what arousal non concordance is, causes of arousal non concordance, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, types of arousal non concordance, complications, coping strategies, and how to support someone with arousal non concordance.
Causes of Arousal Non Concordance
The exact cause of arousal non concordance is not known, however, there are several theories that suggest possible causes. The most widely accepted theory is that it is a result of trauma, particularly in those who have experienced abuse or neglect. It is thought that the body’s fight or flight response is activated as a way to protect itself from further trauma.
Other possible causes of arousal non concordance include biological factors, such as genetics, hormones, and neurochemicals, as well as environmental factors, such as stress and anxiety. Additionally, it is possible that arousal non concordance can be caused by other mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Symptoms of Arousal Non Concordance
The most common symptom of arousal non concordance is an increase in physiological arousal (e.g., increased heart rate, sweating, and/or muscle tension) that is not in line with the individual’s emotional state. Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping, irritability, and/or feeling overwhelmed.
Additionally, those with arousal non concordance may experience physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle aches. They may also experience an increase in negative thoughts and rumination, as well as feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and/or fear.
Diagnosis of Arousal Non Concordance
In order to diagnose arousal non concordance, a mental health professional will typically conduct a thorough assessment that includes an interview, a physical exam, and possibly laboratory tests. During the interview, the mental health professional may ask questions about the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and family history. During the physical exam, the mental health professional may check the individual’s blood pressure and heart rate, as well as perform tests to check for any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the individual’s arousal non concordance.
The mental health professional may also refer the individual to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more in-depth psychological evaluation. This evaluation may include tests such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) or the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD).
Treatments for Arousal Non Concordance
The primary treatment for arousal non concordance is psychotherapy. During psychotherapy, the individual will work with a mental health professional to identify and address the underlying causes of their arousal non concordance. This may include exploring their trauma history, as well as their current stressors, goals, and coping strategies.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that is commonly used to treat arousal non concordance. During CBT, the individual will work with their mental health professional to identify and challenge any negative thoughts or beliefs that may be contributing to their arousal non concordance. The goal of CBT is to replace these negative thoughts and beliefs with more positive and realistic ones.
Medication may also be prescribed in order to help reduce the symptoms of arousal non concordance. Commonly prescribed medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers. It is important to note that medication should always be used in conjunction with psychotherapy in order to be most effective.
Types of Arousal Non Concordance
There are several different types of arousal non concordance, each of which is characterized by different symptoms.
The first type of arousal non concordance is known as “hyperarousal”. This type is characterized by an over-activation of the body’s fight or flight response, resulting in increased heart rate, sweating, and/or muscle tension.
The second type of arousal non concordance is known as “hypoarousal”. This type is characterized by an under-activation of the body’s fight or flight response, resulting in decreased heart rate, sweating, and/or muscle tension.
The third type of arousal non concordance is known as “mixed arousal”. This type is characterized by a combination of both hyperarousal and hypoarousal symptoms.
Complications of Arousal Non Concordance
Arousal non concordance can lead to a number of complications, both physical and psychological. Physically, it can lead to fatigue, headaches, stomachaches, muscle aches, and difficulty sleeping. Psychologically, it can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and/or fear, as well as an increase in negative thoughts and rumination.
Additionally, arousal non concordance can have a significant impact on an individual’s social life and relationships. It can lead to increased isolation and decreased social interactions, as well as difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
Coping Strategies for Arousal Non Concordance
There are a number of coping strategies that can be used to help manage arousal non concordance. Some of these strategies include:
• Deep breathing: Deep breathing can help to regulate the body’s fight or flight response and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
• Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment and letting go of any worries or concerns. It can help to improve one’s emotional and physical wellbeing.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety and can also help to improve one’s overall mood.
• Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Positive self-talk: Positive self-talk can help to reduce negative thoughts and rumination, as well as increase feelings of self-confidence and self-worth.
• Coping skills: Coping skills, such as problem-solving and positive distraction, can help to reduce stress and improve one’s overall wellbeing.
• Social support: Social support is essential for those with arousal non concordance. It is important to have a support system of friends and family who can provide emotional support when needed.
How to Support Someone with Arousal Non Concordance
It is important to remember that arousal non concordance is a real and valid condition and that those who are affected by it need to be supported. Here are some ways to support someone with arousal non concordance:
• Listen: It is important to be an active listener and to really try to understand what the person is going through.
• Validate: It is important to validate the person’s feelings and experiences. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and helplessness.
• Encourage: It is important to encourage the person to seek treatment and to utilize coping strategies.
• Educate: It is important to educate yourself about arousal non concordance so that you can better understand and support the person.
• Be patient: It is important to be patient and understanding as the person works to manage their arousal non concordance.
• Offer help: It is important to offer practical help, such as providing transportation to appointments or offering to help with household chores.
• Spend time together: It is important to spend quality time with the person and to engage in activities that they enjoy.
• Check in: It is important to check in regularly to make sure that the person is doing okay.
Conclusion
Arousal non concordance is a condition where a person experiences physiological arousal that is not in line with their emotional state. It is a condition that is often overlooked, but can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental and physical wellbeing. In this article, we discussed what arousal non concordance is, causes of arousal non concordance, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, types of arousal non concordance, complications, coping strategies, and how to support someone with arousal non concordance. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be experiencing arousal non concordance, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional.
We hope this article has been helpful in understanding arousal non concordance and how to support those who are affected by it. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
