Motherhood is a journey filled with countless responsibilities, ever-growing to-do lists, and the constant feeling that there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. Sitting with our feelings seems like a luxury we cannot afford. When we experience emotional pain, it is common to turn to coping mechanisms like scrolling through phones, watching videos, binge-watching TV, late-night snacking, or using substances. We might think of these as distractions to give ourselves a break from difficult feelings. However, if we don’t eventually revisit and process those feelings, it becomes avoidance.
Frequently, mental health symptoms arise from this pattern of avoidance. When we consistently avoid processing stressful experiences, addressing relationship issues, or understanding the root of our sadness or fear, we inadvertently signal to our bodies that we’re not capable of handling big emotions. This can make avoidance behaviors more automatic over time, making it harder to break free and pushing us further from the very things we need to face to feel better.
The path to true relief from painful emotions involves acknowledging and facing them directly. Allowing yourself to experience the full wave of a feeling not only provides release but also teaches your mind and body that you can handle these emotions. This reduces the likelihood of avoidant behaviors. Therapy can facilitate this through straightforward and effective exposure exercises.
Exposure therapy might sound intimidating or even scary. While this experience can be uncomfortable in the beginning, it can also lead to significant symptom relief, new self-awareness, and a stronger connection with yourself. Working with a skilled therapist in a safe and supportive environment creates an opportunity to explore deeper feelings and stressful experiences, ultimately leading to less pain and greater self-understanding.
At Mom Over Matter, we utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy to help clients navigate strong emotions and mental health symptoms. This approach allows us to compassionately address difficult aspects of ourselves and our past, moving away from avoidance and self-criticism. Through this process, we connect with our deepest pain to understand it, process it, and learn how to move forward. Read more about IFS here.
It’s natural to want to avoid pain. At Mom Over Matter, we offer guidance and support as you begin to turn toward your pain, enabling you to move forward and shift from simply existing to truly growing. We are here to support you, in all your complexities. Please feel free to book a free consultation here.
