Resting Amygdala Connectivity and Basal Sympathetic Tone as Markers of Chronic Hypervigilance

Hypervigilance is a behavioral, cognitive, and physiological state of sustained hyperarousal and alertness for potential threat. The cognitive component of hypervigilance (i.e., increased alertness) is mediated by activation of threat-detection neural circuitry centered around the amygdala (e.g., Yoon& Weierich, 2016), whereas its physiological component (i.e., elevated arousal) is mediated by activation of the neuroendocrine stress systems (e.g., Pole et al., 2007). In potentially dangerous situations, hypervigilance is adaptive, as it facilitates threat detection when an actual threat appears and enables a prompt response by mobilizing necessary resources.

Source: Psychoneuroendocrinology - November 26, 2018 Category: Psychiatry Authors: Olena Kleshchova, Jenna K. Rieder, Jack Grinband, Mariann R. Weierich Source Type: research