Permanent regression is a non-agere term used when someone who has experienced severe trauma or otherwise brain-alterning event(s) enters a permanent and indefinite state of longterm regression in age. It is exclusively involuntary, often being an unpleasant and stressful way to live, and can also fall under the umbrella of dissociative symptoms. It is not a part of the age regression community, or a community term. Permanent regression is used as a medical identifier, for those who have a severe set of symptoms due to neurological and/or mental health conditions.
How does it affect people?
People who are in permanent regression cannot control their regression or regression-affected behaviors, such as cleaning, eating, bathing, or working. Permanent regressors often have body dysmorphia, age dysphoria, identity incognruence, trauma symptoms, and dissociative episodes. It is often impossible to function in daily life as someone who is permanently regressed without a designated family member, therapist, caregiver, or combination of adult guardian(s.) Permanent regression is majorly disruptive in every aspect of a person's life, activities, and personal relationships.
Is this the same as forever-kids?
The short answer is no. While forever-kids is a similar term, permanent regressors are unable to be aware of their adult status or do anything to switch off, they are completely regressed at all times. Forever kids is a community term, and loosely defined as "a regressor who is always or almost always in their headspace" (credit: deliriousdadd on IG.) Permanent regression is different, and not a headspace. It is where one cannot conceptualize they are in an adult body or have adult obligations, and live every day in the mental state of an infant or child. They are unable to do most things on their own, or ever come out of the regression they are in.
Am I a permanent regressor?
Permanent regression can often come across as delusion or dissociation due to the severity of it, which is why the answer will usually be no, and thats okay! It's a lot nicer to be someone that can use regression voluntarily and positively, and enjoy the time spent regressing. If you are able to complete basic tasks and bodily care, are aware and/or comfortable in being an adult, find your regression is mostly/entirely enjoyable or comforting, can function without adult input/help, or your regression is voluntary, you are likely not a permanent regressor.
Can I become a permanent regressor?
No. Permanent regression is not only completely involuntary, but also comes with a whole lot of pain, discomfort, and confusion. It is not something to aspire too or want to "achieve." While it's very possible to have good times and positive feelings as a permanent regressor, it is still a symptom of severe conditions. Just because it may sound like something nice, to "really feel like a kid all the time," in reality it is a life of misplacement and can be lonely.
Important things to note
Permanent regression is not something that is usually healthy or happy for those going through it. It is very important that if you are privleged enough to have access to healthcare such as therapy, and you feel you may be in permanent regression or nearing it, to see someone that can help you cope with it. Not everyone has access to the trauma therapy or medication needed to be able to move on and heal, and some people that are permanently regressed will not be able to move past it at all. Be concious of how you speak to those that experience it, and understand that what others are going through is likely much more alarming for them than it is for you.
