#exposuretherapy

Our feelings of dread and shame are symptoms of a deeper underlying cause.

This cause is some unhead trauma we carry either from childhood or from previous lives.

The best way to heal this trauma is known as exposure therapy. We need to be vulnerable to expose ourselves frequently to things and situations that arouse these feelings.

The technique works like the old-fashioned ancient way of keeping a wound open to heal it faster without worrying about infection.

Phobias are not about being irrational or weak.

They are learned fear responses where the nervous system stays locked in protection mode, even when the danger is long gone.

Your body is reacting as if the threat is still happening, because at some point, that response kept you safe.

Therapy is not about forcing fear away.

It is about helping your nervous system relearn safety, slowly and consistently, so your life can feel bigger again.

If fear has been running the show, support can help you take that space back.

Exposure therapy is a cornerstone treatment for phobias, PTSD, OCD, and anxiety disorders. It involves gradual, controlled exposure to feared situations or thoughts to desensitize and reduce the power those fears hold over you. While it can be challenging, exposure therapy is highly effective when guided by a trained therapist.This post will walk through the stages of exposure therapy, types of…

1. Take a fidget toy with you

(I never leave the house for an exposure task without my squishies <3)

2. Wear clothes that are comfortable and make you feel confident

(Being as comfortable physically and mentally can help prevent anxiety from getting worse)

3. Plan tasks in advance

(For me personally I have a weekly planner where I assign myself a task everyday such as ‘get on a train’ or ‘go for a walk by myself’ having set tasks everyday helps keep me accountable and also allows me to mentally prepare myself)

4. Practice affirmations e.g: “I can get through this”

(It can be hard to control the physical reaction to exposure therapy regardless of whether or not you try to control the mental reaction unfortunately but every little bit counts)

5. Get a good night sleep the night beforehand

(This one may be hard for a lot of people especially if you’re like me and struggle with PTSD but trying to get a good night sleep the night before can help prevent further exhaustion which exacerbates anxiety)

6. Fuel your body before and after

(Again another one that may be hard for a lot of people including the author of this post but fueling your body when it’s under stress is so important)

7. Find a support system

(For me this includes my psychologist, GP, parents and boyfriend)

8. And finally be kind to yourself!

Explore the transformative journey of mental health with insights, techniques, and real-life experiences to help individuals navigate their path to well-being.n the embrace of mental health therapy, individuals find a safe harbor amidst life's storms, a sanctuary where vulnerabilities are honored and growth is nurtured.