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Polyvagal Theory in Addiction & Mental Health Treatment

What Is Polyvagal Theory?

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, is an influential framework that explains how the body’s autonomic nervous system responds to safety, stress, and trauma. At Monument Recovery, we integrate this approach into our young adult addiction treatment program to help clients understand their nervous system, reduce shame around symptoms, and build practical skills for healing.

The Three States of the Nervous System

Polyvagal Theory identifies three main states of the autonomic nervous system, each shaping how we think, feel, and react:

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Ventral Vagal (Safety & Social Engagement):

The calm, connected state where trust, communication, and growth happen.

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Sympathetic (Fight or Flight):

The mobilization state, marked by heightened anxiety, racing thoughts, and physical readiness to face threats.

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Dorsal Vagal (Freeze or Shutdown):

The body’s survival collapse, often experienced as dissociation, numbness, or withdrawal.

These states form a hierarchy. When safety is lost, the body moves from connection to fight-or-flight, and finally into shutdown. Recovery involves learning to recognize these shifts and return to safety.

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Why Polyvagal Theory Matters in Recovery

For many young adults struggling with substance use and co-occurring conditions such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety, the nervous system becomes dysregulated. Drugs or alcohol can become an attempt to “self-regulate” overwhelming states of fight, flight, or freeze.

By using Polyvagal Theory in treatment, clients begin to see their reactions not as personal failures but as survival responses wired into the nervous system. This understanding reduces shame, fosters compassion, and builds a foundation for lasting recovery.

Polyvagal Theory & Co-Occurring Disorders

Polyvagal-informed therapy is especially valuable in treating co-occurring conditions. Many mental health symptoms—panic, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or dissociation—are linked to the nervous system’s protective responses. By teaching clients to regulate their nervous systems, Monument Recovery helps young adults manage both substance use and mental health challenges in a unified, holistic way.

 

Healing Through Connection

One of the most important principles of Polyvagal Theory is co-regulation—the idea that safety and healing come from supportive relationships. At Monument Recovery, we create an environment where young adults can:

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Build Safe Therapeutic Relationships

with clinicians who teach practical regulation skills.

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Practice Somatic Tools

like breathwork, grounding, and rhythm-based exercises.

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Connect in Community

through peer support and group therapy, reinforcing safety and belonging.

This integrative approach empowers clients to move out of survival mode and into a state where real growth and recovery can take place.

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Polyvagal Theory in Practice at Monument Recovery

In treatment, young adults learn to map their “autonomic ladder,” identify when they are in fight, flight, or freeze, and use tools to return to a regulated state. Over time, this practice strengthens resilience, reduces relapse risk, and supports lasting recovery.

Polyvagal Theory is more than a clinical model—it’s a pathway to feeling safe, connected, and fully alive again. For young adults in our Arizona program, it provides the nervous system foundation necessary for healing from addiction and mental health challenges.

Begin Your Recovery Journey

At Monument Recovery, we combine evidence-based modalities with innovative approaches like Polyvagal Theory to help young adults heal from addiction and co-occurring disorders.

Contact us today to learn how our Arizona treatment program for young adults can help you or your loved one find safety, connection, and lasting recovery. 

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