Polyvagal theory: Understanding mental health as a 'body' problem

Mental health has long been viewed through psychology, focusing on cognitive processes, emotions, and behaviour. However, recent advancements in neurobiology, particularly the polyvagal theory and adaptive information model, have shed new light on the underlying mechanisms of mental health disorders.

This article explores the polyvagal theory and the adaptive information model and argues that many mental health problems can be attributed to various traumas and disruptions in the body's regulatory systems, rather than solely as psychological phenomena.

Trauma and its effects

Trauma encompasses a wide range of experiences, from acute incidents like accidents or violence to chronic stressors such as abuse or neglect. Regardless of the form it takes, trauma can have profound and lasting effects on an individual's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Traditional psychological models have focused primarily on the cognitive and emotional aspects of trauma, often overlooking its somatic impact.

Polyvagal theory

Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the body's response to stress and trauma. According to this theory, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates physiological states and responses to environmental stimuli. The ANS comprises three subsystems:

• the ventral vagal complex
• the sympathetic nervous system
•  the dorsal vagal complex

The ventral vagal complex is associated with social engagement and safety behaviours, promoting feelings of connection and relaxation. This system is activated when individuals feel safe and secure, allowing for healthy social interactions and emotional regulation. However, in response to perceived threats or trauma, the sympathetic nervous system and the dorsal vagal complex can activate, leading to a cascade of physiological responses known as the fight-flight-freeze response.

By understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system, trauma, and self-regulatory mechanisms in shaping mental health outcomes, we can develop more holistic approaches to treatment and intervention. 

Adaptive information model

Dr. Peter Levine's adaptive information model builds upon polyvagal theory principles and emphasises the body's role in processing and resolving traumatic experiences. According to this model, trauma occurs when an individual's natural self-regulatory mechanisms are overwhelmed, preventing the completion of the body's instinctual response to threat.

When faced with a traumatic event, the body initiates a series of adaptive responses designed to protect against harm. These responses may include increased heart rate, muscle tension, and heightened arousal. However, suppose the threat persists, or the individual cannot discharge the energy mobilised during the response. In that case, the trauma becomes "stuck" in the body, leading to a variety of physical and psychological symptoms.

Integration of trauma and polyvagal theory

By integrating trauma with polyvagal theory and the adaptive information model, we can better understand the complex interplay between the body, mind, and environment in shaping mental health outcomes. Rather than viewing mental health problems as solely psychological, it is essential to recognise the physiological underpinnings of these disorders.

Trauma not only disrupts the body's regulatory systems but also alters the way individuals perceive and respond to their environment. Chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the dorsal vagal complex can lead to dysregulation of mood, cognition, and behaviour, contributing to the development of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.

In conclusion, mental health problems are not merely 'mental' but are deeply rooted in the body's response to stress and trauma. By understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system, trauma, and self-regulatory mechanisms in shaping mental health outcomes, we can develop more holistic approaches to treatment and intervention. By addressing trauma's physiological and somatic aspects, we can help individuals restore balance and resilience, promoting healing and well-being.