The human mind keeps numerous mechanisms to defend itself, to safeguard us from difficult events that may constitute a threat. Withdrawal is one of these mechanisms, it is a psychological response that admits a temporary balm, although it also has long-term implications in case it is not handled properly. In other words, what our brain is trying to do is to defend us from emotional damage as a result of stressful situations, people we consider a threat or something that overwhelms us or we believe to be a danger.
Withdrawal is considered a mode of emotional avoidance. It is manifested when we withdraw, either emotionally or physically, from events that we believe to be distressing, stressful or challenging. That is, far from facing the problem or the feeling it provokes, we choose to distance ourselves internally or even isolate ourselves from our environment, thus creating a kind of barrier between us and the threatening factor.
This self-defense of the brain reveals itself in different ways. Some people manifest it passively, for example, when they avoid confrontations or try to flee the problem by isolating themselves socially. Others express withdrawal more aggressively, withdrawing from reality by taking addictive substances or engaging in harmful behaviors. In reality, what we are trying to do is to protect ourselves emotionally, avoiding any possible damage and negative psychological consequences.
How does this impact our emotional health?
While it is said that withdrawal may provide temporary shelter from a problem, it also leads to detrimental effects on emotional health in the longer term. Extreme isolation from others can also involve feelings of loneliness, lack of social support, as well as emotional withdrawal. It can also hinder personal development and problem solving, as we do not face the challenge and confrontations that are necessary to move forward in life.
What healthy alternatives do we have to face this phenomenon?
Even if we consider withdrawal as a momentary relief from distress, pain or anxiety, this is not the most effective long-term solution. The solution does not lie in escaping from our problems or emotions, because in this way we will be avoiding the possibility of delving into their roots or learning to manage them more effectively. At the same time, isolation could negatively alter our social bonds, leading to further disconnection and feelings of loneliness.
Dealing with withdrawal involves self-awareness and compassion. Here are some positive recommendations for managing this defense mechanism:
Practice mindfulness: You can learn and incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily life in order to stay in the present, accept your thoughts and assume what you feel without making judgments.
Recognize when you are choosing to withdraw and observe what you are feeling and why you are doing it.
Set small goals: This will strengthen your level of self-confidence, facing situations that create anxiety.
Self-care: Prioritize self-care, for example, your quality of sleep, your diet, your physique. This will go a long way toward making you feel better every day.
Entertainment: Seek to do activities that entertain you and allow you to express your emotions satisfactorily.
Seek help: Talk to friends, close family members, people you trust or a mental health professional about the problems you are going through and the emotions you are experiencing.
Therapy: You may consider therapy as a coping mechanism. This will help you explore the reasons for your withdrawal and build coping skills to deal with distressing situations.
Keep in mind that being withdrawn does not mean that we are weak, but that it is a response of our mind to problems and stress. However, through self-knowledge and the right help we can transform this defense mechanism into an opportunity for emotional growth, personal strength and resilience development.
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