What state might a mental health professional associate with the lower phase of the hypervigilance cycle?

The lower phase of the hypervigilance cycle is associated with feelings of exhaustion and apathy. In this phase, an individual who has been operating under high levels of stress for an extended period may start to experience significant fatigue. This can manifest as a lack of motivation, diminished energy levels, and emotional numbing.

During this state, the body and mind are indicating that they have been overtaxed by the ongoing state of alertness and stress associated with hypervigilance. Instead of maintaining alertness, individuals may find themselves withdrawing from situations or feeling indifferent. This contrasts sharply with the heightened states of alertness, hyperactivity, or intense focus that can characterize the earlier phases of the hypervigilance cycle, where the individual is more engaged and actively responding to perceived threats.

Understanding this phase is crucial for mental health professionals working with law enforcement personnel, as it highlights the importance of recognizing signs of burnout and the need for appropriate interventions to manage stress and promote emotional resilience.