Why soothing anxiety can actually worsen anxiety
Soothing anxiety can sometimes reinforce it, not because the act of soothing itself is inherently problematic, but because of the way individuals may go about soothing their anxiety and the unintended consequences that can result. Here's how this can happen:
Avoidance and Safety Behaviors:
When individuals are anxious, they often seek relief or comfort. However, they may do so by engaging in avoidance behaviors or safety behaviors. These behaviors are intended to reduce immediate distress, but they can inadvertently reinforce anxiety in the long run. For example, if someone with social anxiety avoids social situations because they find them distressing, they might feel immediate relief, but this avoidance prevents them from learning that their fears are often unfounded and that they can cope with social situations.
2. Rumination:
Another way soothing can reinforce anxiety is through rumination. Rumination involves repeatedly thinking about the causes and consequences of one's anxiety. While it may seem like a way to gain control over anxiety, it often prolongs and intensifies anxious feelings. Overthinking can lead to a cycle where the individual becomes more and more anxious as they dwell on their anxious thoughts.
3. Over Reliance on Avoidance:
When individuals repeatedly soothe their anxiety by avoiding or escaping anxiety-provoking situations, they reinforce the belief that they cannot handle these situations without the soothing behaviors. This overreliance on soothing strategies can lead to increased anxiety because it prevents individuals from learning effective coping skills and building resilience.
4. Temporary Relief:
Soothing behaviors can provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms. This immediate relief can create a powerful positive reinforcement loop, making the person more likely to use the same soothing strategies in the future. However, these strategies may not address the root causes of anxiety or help the person build long-term resilience.
5. Emotional Avoidance:
Soothing anxiety can sometimes be a form of emotional avoidance. Rather than facing and processing underlying emotions or addressing the sources of anxiety, individuals may use soothing behaviors to numb or escape from their feelings temporarily. This can prevent them from addressing the root causes of their anxiety and developing healthier ways to manage it.
It's important to note that not all soothing strategies are inherently problematic. Many healthy coping mechanisms, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and self-care practices, can be effective in reducing anxiety without reinforcing it.
The key is to use strategies that promote long-term well-being and resilience rather than relying solely on short-term relief that may perpetuate the anxiety cycle.
Additionally, seeking professional anxiety therapy from a therapist or counselor can provide guidance on how to manage anxiety in a healthy and effective manner.
Reach out to Kairos Wellness Collective today for more information on our therapists and how they can help you navigate your anxiety!