When we think about mental health, we often imagine emotions, thoughts, or stress. But deep beneath the surface, much of what we feel and how we react begins in the nervous system. When your nervous system becomes dysregulated, it can affect your body, mood, and daily functioning in ways that might not seem connected to mental health at first. Here are seven signs that your nervous system may be out of balance. Many people dismiss these symptoms or don’t realize what’s really happening beneath the surface.
1. Persistent fatigue, even with enough rest:
You might get plenty of sleep but still wake up exhausted. This can happen when your nervous system stays in a low-grade stress state that prevents full recovery. Chronic fatigue is one of the most common physical signs of nervous system dysregulation.
2. Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
If everyday noises, bright lights, or light touches feel overwhelming, your system may be stuck in a state of hypervigilance. This heightened sensitivity is a sign that your body is having trouble calming down after stress.
3. Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or memory slips
Feeling scattered, forgetful, or unable to focus can be tied to changes in the nervous system. When your body stays alert for too long, it can make it harder for your brain to concentrate or store new information.
4. Digestive issues or frequent stomach problems
The “rest and digest” response is controlled by your parasympathetic nervous system. When this system is out of balance, you may experience nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
5. Emotional overreactions or feeling emotionally numb
You might notice that you snap easily over small frustrations, or you may feel detached from your emotions altogether. Both can be signs that your nervous system is struggling to regulate your stress and emotional responses.
6. Trouble sleeping or feeling “wired but tired”
If you lie awake with racing thoughts, wake up often during the night, or sleep but never feel rested, your body may still be in a stress response mode. Quality rest depends on a balanced nervous system.
7. Unexplained pain or chronic tension
Headaches, tight shoulders, jaw pain, or muscle tension can all be signs that your nervous system is holding onto stress. When your body stays in a defensive mode, physical pain often follows.
What you can do about it
You can begin regulating your nervous system through small, consistent actions. Try deep breathing, guided body scans, gentle stretching, or short walks. These practices signal to your body that it’s safe to relax.
Counseling can also play an important role in retraining your stress response. Therapists who use somatic (body-based) and trauma-informed techniques can help you recognize your triggers and learn ways to bring your body back to a calm, balanced state. If you notice several of these signs, your nervous system may be out of balance. It might be a good idea to consider reaching out to a licensed counselor at The Village Family Service Center. Our therapists help clients manage stress, understand how their body reacts to it, and develop tools to feel more grounded and at ease.