Kinder is Stronger: The Case for Self-Compassion
Kinder is Stronger: The Case for Self-Compassion
When you have experienced a traumatic event or developed post-traumatic stress disorder, it is difficult to have self-compassion. The wounds and untreated symptoms from living with trauma are frustrating, making it hard to go easy on yourself. Yet, developing self-compassion is an important part of overcoming the past and living fully and with meaning in the present.
Most of us want to avoid painful memories, but doing so does not make them go away. If the sound of a car backfiring makes you re-experience a traumatic event like being shot or hitting another car in a car crash, being near roads will likely make you nervous. At the same time, the disparity between what we know is real in contrast with our psychological reactions can be distressing. It’s just a car, you tell yourself; why can’t I ignore it like I used to?
What people often overlook is that the fight-or-flight response is a natural way that our bodies and minds react to dangerous situations, whether the threat is physical or psychological. The fear you experience at the loud pop of a car’s backfire was at one time a coping mechanism that your brain registered as life-saving; berating yourself for your reaction is like cursing the new brake pads you put on your car for stopping the car! You’re simply doing what you’re supposed to do. Even if the reactions your experience are no longer necessary or disruptive in your daily life, trying to avoid or suppress ...
Source: Cliffside Malibu - Category: Addiction Authors: Constance Scharff, PhD Tags: Abuse Addiction Recovery Addiction to Pharmaceuticals Addiction Treatment and Program Resources Alcoholism Behavioral Addictions Current Events Drug Rehab Information Drug Treatment Mental Health addiction treatment center alcohol ab Source Type: blogs
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