The Only Way Out is Through: Understanding the Consequences of Avoidance

After The Tones Drop

It's crucial to understand that avoidance, while it may seem like a protective shield, can actually backfire on us. It can leave us feeling detached, emotionally numb, and even lead to anger or frustration.
After experiencing a traumatic event, our brains kick into survival mode and try to shield us from reliving that horror. It's like our brain's way of saying, "Hey, let's avoid anything that reminds us of that hellish experience." And that's where avoidance comes into play.

Now, this avoidance can manifest in a bunch of different ways, and it's important to recognize them. First off, we've got Avoidance #1: steering clear of thoughts, emotions, or even discussions about the traumatic incident. It's like we put up an invisible barrier in our minds, telling ourselves, "Nope, not going there."
Next up, we have Avoidance #2: staying away from places, people, or activities that might trigger memories of the trauma. It's like we become experts at playing hide and seek, but instead of hiding from a friend, we're hiding from our own thoughts and feelings. Sneaky, right?
This episode takes a deeper dive in explaining what happens when avoidance is used to cope and strategies to do something different.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
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• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE