This internal dispatch system broadcasts continuously—a stream of worries about work, replayed traumatic calls, relationship analysis, drinking scenarios, self-criticism, future problems, and running commentary on every aspect of life with the same intensity and persistence that characterizes emergency radio traffic during multi-agency responses. Unlike external dispatch channels that can be turned off or switched, this mental chatter operates continuously, creating internal noise pollution that can make early recovery feel overwhelming and unmanageable.

The hypervigilance developed from years of emergency response work creates mental states where the brain remains constantly alert, scanning for threats and maintaining readiness for action. In recovery, this same mental alertness that once served protective functions becomes counterproductive when applied to internal experiences and everyday situations that don't require emergency response. The mind continues operating at intensive emergency levels even during quiet moments, creating experiences that feel like being trapped in a communications center where multiple urgent conversations happen simultaneously without any ability to focus or find mental quiet.