Fight, flight, freeze & fawn worksheets

THE FLIGHT RESPONSE

WHAT IS IT?

The flight response occurs if the brain does not feel that it can successfully fight off danger and instead triggers the action of trying to escape. This fear response is characterised by trying to get as far away from the dangerous situation, as quickly as possible. This response is needed and helpful if the danger is something that can be outrun, however when this happens as a result of a “false alarm”, can result in withdrawing socially, and disconnecting from those around you.

WHY DOES IT OCCUR? The fight response often occurs as a result of having experienced trauma or disconnect early in life. Individuals who have grown up in a household with frequent conflicts are particularly vulnerable to this response, which at its core, is a protective behaviour when experiencing fear and distress.

WHAT DOES THE FLIGHT RESPONSE LOOK LIKE?

Common expressions of flight may include:

Feeling fidgety or tense. Feeling trapped. Difficulty being still, and constantly moving arms, legs, hands etc. Feeling of numbness in arms and legs. Experiencing restlessness.

Throwing yourself in to work or studies when feeling overwhelmed. Constantly needing stimulation through music or tv in the background. Ending relationships early due to fear

of being left or abandoned. Avoiding conflicts at all costs.