Safe & Sound Protocol

Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) is an innovative auditory therapy developed by world-renowned researcher Dr. Stephen Porges, author of The Polyvagal Theory. SSP aims to address the autonomic nervous system dysregulation often seen in Long-COVID patients.

Guided by a clinical psychologist, SSP uses specially filtered sounds to stimulate the vagus nerve and regulate the autonomic nervous system. This process helps retrain the nervous system to better differentiate between safe and dangerous signals, potentially alleviating many Long-COVID symptoms.

Long-COVID and Autonomic Dysfunction

Long-COVID is a complex condition affecting between 15 and 30% of Australians who have recovered from acute COVID-19. One of the key features of Long-COVID is dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, which can lead to a wide range of persistent symptoms.

The Autonomic Nervous System and Long-COVID

The ANS regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature control. In Long-COVID, this system can become imbalanced, leading to various symptoms:

1. Cardiovascular Issues:
   • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): Abnormal heart rate increase upon standing
   • Blood pressure fluctuations
   • Palpitations and chest pain
2. Neurological Symptoms:
   • Brain fog and cognitive difficulties
   • Headaches
   • Dizziness and vertigo
3. Gastrointestinal Problems:
   • Nausea and loss of appetite
   • Digestive issues
   • Changes in bowel habits
4. Thermoregulation:
   • Excessive sweating
   • Temperature sensitivity
5. Energy and Sleep Disturbances:
   • Chronic fatigue
   • Sleep disorders
   • Post-exertional malaise
6. Mood and Emotional Regulation:
   • Anxiety and depression
   • Mood swings
   • Heightened stress response
7. Sensory Issues:
   • Hypersensitivity to light, sound, or touch
   • Altered taste and smell

Safe & Sound Protocol for Autonomic Dysfunction

SSP aims to address autonomic dysregulation by:

1. Improving vagal tone: Enhancing the function of the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system.
2. Reducing sympathetic dominance: Helping to shift the ANS from a "fight or flight" state to a "rest and digest" state.
3. Enhancing neuroception: Improving the nervous system's ability to accurately assess environmental safety.
4. Promoting neuroplasticity: Encouraging the formation of new neural pathways that support healthy autonomic function.

Emerging Research

While research on SSP for Long-COVID is still in its early stages, preliminary studies and clinical observations suggest potential benefits:

• Improved autonomic regulation
• Reduced fatigue and brain fog
• Decreased anxiety and depression
• Enhanced sleep quality
• Alleviation of sensory sensitivities

By addressing these aspects of autonomic dysfunction, SSP may help alleviate many of the persistent symptoms experienced by Long-COVID patients, potentially improving overall quality of life and functioning.

How It Works

1. Initial assessment: Comprehensive evaluation with a senior Clinical Psychologist certified in Safe & Sound Protocol.
2. Tailored treatment plan: Personalized SSP protocol designed to address your specific Long-COVID symptoms.
3. Treatment sessions: 15-minute sessions via our digital platform, 2 to 3 times per week.
4. Active engagement & self-practice: Integration of self-guided auditory therapy exercises to empower self-regulation.
5. Ongoing coaching & support: Proactive case management by your therapist to encourage adherence and monitor progress.
6. Regular updates: We keep you and your referring healthcare providers informed throughout the treatment process.

At Biio, our senior clinical psychologist, Valentina Dragicevic, offers Safe & Sound Protocol via telehealth Australia-wide, making this promising therapy accessible to Long-COVID patients anywhere.