Blog Posts

Our central nervous system (CNS) did not evolve and is not capable of the constant stimulation we experience in today’s world.  In our fast-paced modern world, many individuals may not fully grasp how our lifestyles can over-stimulate the CNS – causing major problems we see in the world around us. 

What is the Central Nervous System?

The central nervous system is a critical part of the body that includes the brain and spinal cord.  It’s job is to process information gathered from various sources including our 5 senses.
In addition, it is responsible for coordinating bodily functions. The CNS regulates our response to stimuli and plays a key role in regulating mood, behavior, and cognitive functions. Personally, I refer to the CNS as the computer (and wires) that make us “run” effectively (or not).

So, what happens when our CNS becomes over-stimulated?  A LOT!!!

Signs of CNS Over-Stimulation

Over-stimulation of the CNS can occur due to various external factors, including:

Excessive Screen Time: How much of your day (awake time) is spent in front of a screen (of any kind)?  Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to sensory overload, straining your CNS.

High-Stress Environments: Continuous exposure to stressors—be it work pressure, personal relationships, or financial worries—can keep the CNS in a heightened state of alertness.

Caffeine and Stimulants: Over-consumption of caffeine or other stimulants can lead to increased nervous system activity, causing anxiety and restlessness.

Lack of Sleep: Sleep deprivation impairs the CNS’s ability to function optimally, resulting in fatigue and decreased resilience to stress.

Aggressive Music:  The sounds in your daily environment matter.  Your brain is always seeking to become calm.  Aggressive our loud music can cause problems and overload your auditory sensory system within your brain.

Does over-stimulation of the CNS impact our Mental Health?

When the CNS is over-stimulated, it can lead to a variety of mental health issues, such as:

Anxiety Disorders and Panic:  Chronic overstimulation can fuel feelings of anxiety, making it difficult to find calmness or relaxation.

Depression: Prolonged stress and imbalance can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and fatigue, leading to depressive symptoms.

Burnout: Feeling overwhelmed consistently can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion, often seen in both personal and professional settings.

PTSD:  When our environment, or perception thereof, is heightened to such a degree where we feel unsafe, a person can develop symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

ADHD/Spectrum Disorders:  Many symptoms of ADHD and Spectrum are caused by neurological conditions – some of which are the over-stimulation of the nervous system.  These symptoms, can often be resolved to a large degree, if the correct approach is taken to mitigate brainwave patterns, etc. 

Strategies to Calm the CNS

To mitigate the effects of CNS overstimulation and promote better mental health, consider the following strategies that we suggest to help our clients who are suffering:

Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries around the use of digital devices, especially before bedtime. Engaging in offline activities like reading or spending time in nature can help your CNS recover.

Regular Exercise: Physical activity is a natural way to alleviate stress. It releases endorphins, which can improve mood and provide a sense of well-being.

Breath-work:  Practicing intentional breath-work can help anchor your thoughts and reduce feelings of anxiety.  Mindful breath-work promotes relaxation and lower stress levels.

Epsom Salt Bath:  Epsom salt is rich in magnesium and sulphate which helps to reduce muscle tension and inflammation. 

Plan for Needed Rest:  We are way too busy in life, often “running” from the time we wake up to laying down to sleep.  Plan time in your schedule for strategic rest. Disconnect for a bit of time from your busy day.  You will find that your peak performance will increase, if given enough rest.

Establish a Routine: A consistent daily routine can promote stability and predictability, helping you manage stress more effectively.

Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Good sleep hygiene—such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a restful environment—can greatly benefit your CNS.

Nourish Your Body: A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports brain health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can enhance cognitive function and resilience.

Therapies that Work:  Sometimes we need help with finding solutions or stress.  EMDR, Neurofeedback, Virtual Reality guided therapy, and simply discussing options can help you. Each of these types of therapy have proven to work to help lower the overloaded brain to improve function – resulting in better mental health.

In the End

Mental health is intricately linked to how we manage the stimulation of our central nervous system (CNS). By recognizing the signs of overstimulation and implementing strategies to calm the CNS, we can cultivate a healthier mental state and improve our overall quality of life. Remember that seeking support from mental health professionals is also a valuable step in navigating these challenges. Prioritizing mental well-being is not just beneficial; it’s essential for leading a balanced and fulfilling life.

Until next time,

Aaron Nicolaides, PhD, LCSW

Therapeuo Health – “Tackling physical and emotional pain”