When the danger is overwhelming the Dorsal Vagal Activation response is activated the individual feels numb, disconnected, shut down, collapsed, and dissociated. Submission to the danger is an attempt by the ANS to survive the threat. This reminds of the possum playing dead and gives off a smell of death. Or the salamander detaches its wiggling tail as a distraction and sneaks away, or submission to robbers giving them the key to the safe, to spare a life.
Adaptive strategies are often used like alcohol, drugs, food, and sex to cope and regulate as a temporary relief.
