Fight or Flight
Rest & Digest
DBT Skills Connection
100

This branch of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.

What is the sympathetic nervous system.

100

This branch of the autonomic nervous system is associated with "rest and digest" functions.

What is the parasympathetic nervous system?

100

In DBT, emotional dysregulation can lead to an over-activation of this nervous branch system.

What is the sympathetic nervous system?

200

When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, the heart rate does this.

What is increase?

200

When this system is active, blood flow moves back to this organ system to help with nutrient absorption.

What is the digestive system (or GI tract)?

200

This DBT skill can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system by changing body temperature or holding one's breath.

What is the TIPP skill (specifically the "Paced breathing" and "Paired muscle relaxation" components, and potentially the "Temperature" change aspect)?

300

This physical response helps us get out of danger quickly, but in emotional dysregulation, it can be overwhelming.

What is the "fight, flight, or freeze" response?

300

The parasympathetic system has this effect on blood pressure.

What is lower or decrease blood pressure?

+

300

The "A" in the ACCEPTS skill (from Distress Tolerance) can help distract from intense emotions and prevent this nervous system from taking over.

What is the sympathetic nervous system?

400

The sympathetic system response causes pupils to do this, allowing more light in.

What is dilate?

400

This specific cranial nerve accounts for 75% of all parasympathetic nerve fibers.

What is the Vagus nerve?

400

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing is a DBT skill that helps stimulate this nerve to initiate the "rest and digest" response.

What is the Vagus nerve?

500

This key neurotransmitter is released into the bloodstream by the adrenal medulla during a major sympathetic response.

What is epinephrine (adrenaline)?

500

This neurotransmitter is used by both preganglionic and postganglionic neurons (or nerve fibers) in the parasympathetic system.

What is the acetylcholine?

500

This core DBT capability, often developed through skills training, is the ability to calm the body after a strong emotional trigger activates the fight-or-flight response.

What is emotion regulation/coming back to a calm state?