71 his chaotic experience , recognise his reactions , and perhaps manage them better in the future . In essence , the more knowledge and understanding a survivor has , the more control he can have over his life . He is better equipped to manage his reactions and their effects on him and other people .
Psychoeducation strengthens the survivor and , also , those close to him .
3.3.1 Tools to better understand reactions and symptoms
In the sections that follow , we describe tools that will help survivors to understand and deal with their trauma reactions . They include psychoeducation , use of metaphors , and grounding techniques that help survivors to stay within their “ window of tolerance ” or return within their window when they lose control .
“ Window of tolerance ”
Overactivation : Fight / flight increased heart rate , faster breathing , blood to muscles
HELP AND ACTION
“ The ‘ window of tolerance ’”
ACTIVATION
Underactivation : freezing / submission Low heart rate , lower blood flow
The “ window of tolerance ” is a metaphor used to explain trauma reactions . 62 It is based on the idea that each person has a “ tolerance window ” within which he feels present and can learn new skills . Outside that frame , he is too overwhelmed to function effectively .
The metaphor is very simple . The area between the two lines shows the optimal activation level . All people have an area or window where they are in balance , where their state of mind allows them to be present , concentrate , and learn new things .
If the person is above the window of tolerance ( above the top line ), is this indicating that he is overactivated or hyperaroused . It means that he cannot cope and that he is not in the “ here and now ”. If he is below the bottom line , he is underactivated or hypoaroused . Meaning that he is numbed or insufficiently responsive .