The Effects of Regression and Anxiety

We all experience mood swings, anxiety, anger, and other emotions. At times, we respond as typical human beings, while under pressure we might react to problems in unique ways. These responses are associated with psychological terms such as regression, depression, and abnormal behavior toward others. In this article, we will delve deeper into these shifts in human behavior and explore strategies to effectively overcome these challenges.

Regression Psychology

According to German psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud, "Regression is an emotional safeguard in which your emotional behavior reverts to a prior developmental phase, causing you to not fully manage emotional distress and behave abruptly."

Examples are as under;

• Children on their first day of school cry and refuse to leave their parents.
• An adult sucks their thumb and struggles to sleep before their high-profile morning interview.
• A college student panics and chats with their best friend all night long to alleviate stress.

Types of Regression

There are three main types of Regression;

Hypnotic regression therapy:

This method uses hypnosis to access your subconscious and uncover hidden memories of trauma.

Age regression therapy:

Using breathing exercises and specific questions, this therapy aims to make you think like a child again, to uncover forgotten trauma.

Past life regression therapy:

Some people believe that trauma from past lives affects us now. However, most hypnotherapists don't recognize or support this idea because it's hard to prove.

Anxiety

To begin with, it's essential to understand that anxiety is a natural human reaction to stress or overwhelming emotions triggered by life circumstances. However, it's important to be vigilant when stress surpasses the usual limits and your anxiety intensifies. In such cases, seeking guidance from a mental health professional is of utmost importance to effectively acknowledge and manage your anxiety.

Below are some cues and types of anxiety disorders to bear in mind:

Signs of Anxiety:

Several common anxiety indications encompass:

• Physical sensations of discomfort
• Rapid or irregular breathing patterns
• Sensations of dizziness
• Feelings of restlessness and tension
• Stomach upset.

Severe symptoms of anxiety

During severe anxiety attacks, it's possible to experience dissociation – a feeling of being disconnected from your body. Severe chest pain and high blood pressure are also potential symptoms. Consulting a therapist when facing intense and alarming emotions is essential.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders primarily fall into one of five categories:

1. Disorder of generalized anxiety (GAD)
2. OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder
3. Fear Disorder
4. (PTSD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
5. Disorder of Social Anxiety

Cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)

CBT, a therapeutic treatment for depression and anxiety, aims to aid in the recovery of mental health issues. It focuses on collaborating with a psychiatrist to achieve the following goals:

1. Diversify thoughts
2. Shift from negative to positive thinking
3. Enhance problem-solving skills

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy involves the following steps:

• Compile lists of productive and negative thoughts
• Substitute negative thoughts with positive ones
• Review the list daily
• Modify the list based on feelings and situations

This process empowers individuals to manage and control their thoughts, a primary benefit of CBT.

Conclusion

Regression and anxiety are inherent aspects of being human, often triggered by stress and change. Recognizing their signs and employing strategies like therapy can help manage them. Seeking help when needed is key to improving mental well-being.

FAQs

Q1) How can anxiety be reduced?

Ans) Engaging in yoga, meditation, regular exercise, getting sufficient sleep, and following prescribed medication from your doctor will help reduce anxiety.

Q2) Is it normal for humans to experience moments of regression and anxiety sometimes?

Ans) Yes, experiencing regression and anxiety occasionally during times of stress or change is normal. However, if it significantly interferes with your daily life, seeking professional help and treatment is recommended.