Vagus Nerve and PTSD: Expert Insights

Brittany Ferri PHD,OTR/L
Occupational Therapist, Writer
December 22, 2025

Many people are not aware of all the ways in which vagus nerve dysfunction affects the body. For example, a racing heartbeat or uneven breathing rate may be more obvious than a low mood or difficulty responding to stress. But even one of these concerns can have a major impact on our quality of life.

This is why it’s so important that our vagus nerve works as it should, because no one has to live with faulty vagus nerve function. Many people turn to a simple and innovative treatment called vagus nerve stimulation to strengthen this nerve if it isn’t working properly.

Vagus nerve stimulation is especially effective for alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. In this article, we will discuss the connection between the vagus nerve and PTSD as well as explain practical, evidence-based solutions that you can use to overcome this difficult condition.

What is the Vagus Nerve and How Does it Relate to PTSD?

As we mentioned, the vagus nerve has a major influence on all aspects of our health. This is because of where it is in the body. As part of the parasympathetic nervous system, the vagus nerve travels from our brain stem (located at the base of our skull), down each side of the neck, through the chest and torso, and ends in the abdominal region.

The path this nerve takes allows it to control various aspects of our mood, heart rate, digestion, and more. The vagus nerve also encourages our body to recover from times of stress – both physically and emotionally. We all know how difficult various life events can be. These times become even more trying if our bodies remain in a state of distress after the events have ended.

While each of the vagus nerve’s functions seems different, they are interrelated because of the impact that stress and our emotions have on the body’s physical functioning. Conditions such as PTSD often stem from a dysregulated autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is the larger body system that consists of the parasympathetic nervous system (which the vagus nerve is part of) and the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system kicks our body into high gear to respond to stress, while the parasympathetic nervous system helps it gently return to its normal state. Individuals with PTSD have difficulty balancing these two nervous systems, which often leads to symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional dysregulation.

How Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) May Alleviate PTSD Symptoms

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an innovative, evidence-based treatment method that is used to strengthen the vagus nerve with gentle electrical impulses. The use of VNS devices is FDA-approved for the treatment of epilepsy and clinical depression. This makes them a safe, low-risk way to improve the health of the vagus nerve.

VNS also shows great promise in assisting individuals with PTSD symptoms. By stimulating the vagus nerve, VNS devices can place the two parts of the nervous system into a greater balance with one another. 

This can create a range of positive effects, including lower levels of anxiety, improved ability to regulate emotions, less hyperarousal, and improved sleep. VNS may also help people manage physical signs of anxiety that stem from memories of traumatic events, including keeping their heart rate and breathing rate steady.

One recent study showed incredibly promising benefits associated with VNS when provided alongside traditional therapy (prolonged exposure therapy) to patients with treatment-resistant PTSD. Patients reported the absence of all PTSD symptoms 6 months after this treatment was provided. In addition, all patients who participated no longer qualified for a PTSD diagnosis.

Animal studies also show that VNS can alleviate symptoms of anxiety in mice with PTSD. These results all support the benefit of continued research on the use of VNS for post-traumatic stress disorder treatment.

Each of these studies looked at the effects of clinical VNS, which involves implanting a device in the brain to provide impulses. VNS implants require surgical implantation and ensure individuals are properly and regularly using the device as instructed. However, there are a host of non-invasive VNS device options that individuals with PTSD can use at home to produce similar effects.

Types of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for PTSD

There are three main types of VNS techniques that can be used for the management of PTSD. We will explain the mechanisms behind how each type works in the body, as well as list any pros and cons associated with the method.

Electrical Vagus Nerve Stimulation (eVNS) for PTSD

Electrical vagus nerve stimulation (eVNS), sometimes also referred to as transauricular vagus nerve stimulation (ta-VNS), involves the surgical placement of an implant in two locations. One piece of the device (called a generator) is implanted on the left side of the chest, just under the skin. This generator creates the gentle electrical impulses that are sent elsewhere in the body. 

The second piece of the device is called an electrode, which is inserted and wrapped around the vagus nerve where it travels up the left side of the neck. A thin wire connects these two pieces so that impulses coming from the generator are sent directly to the vagus nerve. 

The reason the second part of the device is located at the neck is that this is very close to the brain, allowing users to register the impulses quickly and experience maximal effectiveness.

eVNS devices send consistent stimulation to the vagus nerve, which is intended to regulate and strengthen the nervous system. As a result, the nervous system is more prepared to handle stress and produce steady emotional responses in response to traumatic memories and events.

Surgery is one of the major drawbacks to eVNS use. Due to the implantation process, eVNS also has several side effects, including throat discomfort, voice changes, difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, and sensation changes such as numbness and tingling.

Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) for PTSD

tVNS also stimulates the vagus nerve, though it does so through the surface of the skin. As such, tVNS is provided through wearable devices. Some devices are placed in the ear (much like earplugs or earbuds that play music). Others, called ear clips or ear hooks, are worn over-ear. All devices worn in and around this part of the body target the vagus nerve through intricate structures located in the inner ear. 

Other tVNS devices are wearable just like many health trackers are, meaning they are worn on the wrist as a bracelet or watch would be. These devices send electrical signals to a branch of the vagus nerve that extends down the arm, which travels to the main branch, followed by the brain.

Since these devices are wearable, individuals must make a conscious effort to use them during times of stress. This may be considered a drawback by some people. By triggering the device’s settings, a user will send an electrical impulse that calms the nervous system when they are already experiencing symptoms such as hyperarousal, anxiety, increased heart rate, and more.

While there are not as many side effects as are associated with eVNS, tVNS does have some side effects. These include skin irritation (if the device is worn on the wrist), nausea, headaches, dizziness, and neck pain. 

Natural Ways to Stimulate the Vagus Nerve for PTSD

In addition to the more advanced methods of strengthening the vagus nerve, individuals with PTSD can take advantage of a range of natural, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation techniques. These are simple to walk through from the comfort of your home with little to no equipment, making them accessible to anyone.

Soundsory for PTSD

SoundSory is a music-based home program that naturally stimulates the vagus nerve through engaging exercises and activities that engage many of the body’s senses at once. SoundSory is known to improve mood, emotional stability, and assist with a range of PTSD symptoms.

This multi-sensory exercise program leads you through structured music listening paired with exercises. You will participate in this program for 20 days, take a 2 to 4-week break, and then resume the program for another 20 days. Sessions take 30 minutes to complete.

How to do it:

1. Watch SoundSory videos for your 3-4 daily exercises.
2. Put on the SoundSory headphones and start listening to the included music.
3. While you continue listening to the music, do each of the day’s exercises as many times as you can in 25 minutes. You can follow modifications or simply dance to the music if you have difficulty.
4. When done, listen to the music while resting for 5 minutes.
5. Repeat these 30-minute sessions once per day for a total of 5 to 7 days each week. Don’t do more than one session per day.
6. Once you have completed 20 sessions, take a 3-week break.
7. After your 3-week break, begin another 20 sessions in order to complete the program.

Diaphragmatic breathing for PTSD

Diaphragmatic breathing involves breathing with the diaphragm, which is a muscle located below your lungs. By taking large, full breaths with the diaphragm, this massages the vagus nerve and stimulates it to improve its function. Improved breathing helps regulate our bodily responses to stress, keeping emotions even and steady. This is especially helpful when individuals with PTSD experience moments of distress.

How to do it:

1. Sit in a comfortable chair or on a soft spot on the floor.
2. Place one hand flat on your abdomen and the other hand flat on your chest.
3. Close your eyes or keep them open, though if you choose to keep them open, stay focused on the practice and not your surroundings.
4. Slowly breathe in through your nose. Pay attention to how the hand over your chest slowly rises outward.
5. Gently place your lips together and slowly blow out through your mouth. Focus on how the hand over your abdomen slowly flattens.
6. This is considered one full breath. Complete ten more full breaths.

Singing for PTSD

Singing causes vibration in the vocal cords, which activates the vagus nerve and can trigger the release of feel-good hormones and natural chemicals. These relieve stress, making us feel happier and more at ease.

How to do it:

1. Put on a song you like and loudly sing or chant the words so that you experience a vibrating sensation in your vocal cords.
2. Continue singing along to the song (or according to the words you want).
3. Do this for 3-5 minutes, or more, for maximum effect.

Meditation chants for PTSD

Meditation teaches us to keep a steady heart rate and balanced blood pressure. These vital signs are important for keeping our body calm and relaxed. The vibratory sensation that comes from chanting is especially great to pair with meditation, as this encourages the body to be physically relaxed as the vagus nerve is stimulated. This starts the process of ‘muscle memory,’ so our body begins to associate vagus nerve stimulation with calmness. Anyone with PTSD symptoms can channel this feeling during times of high stress.

How to do it:

1. Find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down.
2. Close your eyes and gently rest your lips together.
3. Picture a calming place. This can be anywhere you’d like and can feel at ease thinking about.
4. Once you feel immersed in that place, begin gently humming.
5. Continue humming and gradually getting louder as you feel your chest vibrate.
6. Once you are humming as loud as you can, start to slowly hum quieter until you stop altogether.
7. This counts as one full chant. Continue to complete 10 full chants.

Interval training for PTSD

Interval training involves completing specific exercises (of your choosing) in rapid succession with rest periods incorporated. While many types of exercise are beneficial for vagus nerve health, interval training is efficient due to its impact on heart rate. This exercise leads you through periods of high heart rate (during each exercise) and opportunities where your heart rate is allowed to return to normal (during each rest period). By achieving a more balanced heart rate, we can learn to keep it steady in response to traumatic memories or events that may be associated with PTSD.

How to do it:

1. Make a list of several exercises you enjoy or might like to try. Some examples include burpees, push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and donkey kicks. If you want a more complete list, search the Internet for other ideas.
2. Set a timer for 60 seconds and complete the first exercise on your list as many times as possible until the timer goes off.
3. Once the timer goes off, set another timer for 60 seconds. During this time, gently stretch your body or simply drink some water as you rest.
4. Once the timer goes off, set it for another 60 seconds and choose another exercise from your list.
5. Do this as many times as you can until the timer goes off.
6. Repeat these steps until you finish all the exercises on your list.
7. Start with 5 or so minutes of interval training, then work your way up to 10 or 20 minutes as long as your body can tolerate it.

How to Integrate Vagus Nerve Stimulation into a PTSD Treatment Plan

As with any health condition, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing PTSD symptoms. This means you will need to integrate vagus nerve stimulation techniques into your existing treatment plan, as they are most effective when paired with other health strategies. You can do this in some of the following ways:

• Write out the steps to each on a piece of paper or in an app on your phone so you can refer to them wherever you are.
• Many people choose to perform these exercises consistently each day. If you do this, select one time each day when you can dedicate the time to the exercise. Some people prefer the evening before bed to assist with sleep, though others may find it helps their alertness and they want those benefits in the morning. Find what works best for you.
• Read the steps to each exercise thoroughly and slowly, being sure you understand what each action entails. Once you have done this, go through the process of each step slowly and with intention.
• Do not stop taking PTSD medication or adjust your dosage without speaking to your healthcare provider. Many medications must be gradually stopped for your own safety, so you are putting yourself at risk if you do so without medical supervision. If you would like to take less of your medication, have an open conversation with your doctor. Explain your concerns and that you are interested in trying vagus nerve stimulation techniques.
• Continue seeking traditional counseling alongside vagus nerve stimulation, as research shows this leads to the best results.

When to Seek Professional Help for PTSD and Vagus Nerve Stimulation

If you are considering VNS therapy or want to learn more about it, be sure to discuss this clinical treatment with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if VNS is right for your PTSD symptoms. Mental health conditions such as PTSD must be individualized, meaning what is right for one person may not be right for someone else.

VNS is considered most effective when it is used as part of a complete treatment plan, including medication, traditional mental health therapies (counseling), and lifestyle modifications. Therefore, it is important to make the commitment to each of these treatments in order to see positive changes.

While each of the non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation techniques we mentioned in this article are safe and effective, you should still consult with a healthcare professional if you have persistent or severe PTSD symptoms. These may include anger, violence, or significant difficulties in functional areas such as sleeping, performing work duties, managing your household, and maintaining relationships. Your provider can make more targeted recommendations for these concerns. 

Conclusion

As you can see, vagus nerve stimulation can help improve a range of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, including but not limited to emotional instability, anxiety, hyperarousal, poor sleep, and functional performance.

Regardless of whether someone uses vagus nerve stimulation devices or non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation techniques, these treatments are known to help balance the nervous system components. This helps our bodies more easily (and appropriately) switch between action mode and a resting state. 

In particular, SoundSory is a great example of a multi-sensorial experience and a non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation method that can help with PTSD. SoundSory uses music and exercise jointly to improve cognitive function, emotional health, and create a healthier, happier you.

References:

1. Hospital for Special Surgery. (2021). How the Parasympathetic Nervous System Can Lower Stress. Retrieved from https://www.hss.edu/health-library/move-better/parasympathetic-nervous-system 
2. MedScape. (2025). Vagus Nerve Anatomy. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1875813-overview?form=fpf 
3. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Stress symptoms: Effects on your body and behavior. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987 
4. Fontenot, S. (2025). Study: PTSD Patients Show Long-Term Benefits with Vagus Nerve Stimulation. Retrieved from https://news.utdallas.edu/health-medicine/study-ptsd-vagus-nerve-stimulation-2025/ 
5. Diao, Z., Zuo, Y., Zhang, J., Chen, K., Liu, Y., Wu, Y., Miao, F., & Qiao, H. (2025). Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation alleviates anxiety-like behaviors in mice with post-traumatic stress disorder by regulating glutamatergic neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex. Transl Psychiatry, 15(313). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-025-03535-9 
6. Zhang, J., Shen, Q.H., Lin, X., Liu, T., Li, Y., Yu, Y., Liang, J., Yu, X., & Chen, G. (2025). Transauricular vagus nerve stimulation in preventing post-traumatic stress disorder in emergency trauma surgery patients in China: A study protocol for a multicenter, double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. BMJ Open, 15(1):e093467. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-093467.
7. Novakovic, V., Sher, L., Lapidus, K.A., Mindes, J.A., Golier, J., & Yehuda, R. (2011). Brain stimulation in posttraumatic stress disorder. Eur J Psychotraumatol, 2. doi: 10.3402/ejpt.v2i0.5609. 
8. Révész, D., Rydenhag, B., & Ben-Menachem, E. (2016). Complications and safety of vagus nerve stimulation: 25 years of experience at a single center. J Neurosurg Pediatr, 18(1), 97-104. doi: 10.3171/2016.1.PEDS15534.

Brittany Ferri PHD,OTR/L

-

My areas of expertise include occupational therapy, rehabilitation medicine, telehealth, and mental health. With nearly 10 years of healthcare experience, I am also qualified to write on topics such as exercise, health insurance, nutrition, orthopedics, geriatric care, pediatric therapy, neurology, and health tech.