Tackling Anxiety with Habituation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Habituation works in two ways. First of which it increases our tolerance through exposure to triggers in an incremental fashion. Second, it allows us to alter the correlations between our anxiety and our core fears, allowing us to see the discrepancy between them...
Imagine facing your fears head-on, but in a way that feels safe and manageable. That's the essence of habituation, a technique discussed in this episode of The Mental Health Toolbox Podcast. Hosted by licensed psychotherapist Patrick Martin, this episode dives into how habituation can help you better manage anxiety. Habituation involves gradually increasing your exposure to anxiety triggers in a controlled manner. By doing this, you can build up your tolerance and lessen the grip these triggers have on you.
Patrick explains how this method can change the way you react to your core fears, making them less daunting over time. You'll also learn the key differences between habituation and sensitization. While sensitization makes you more sensitive to triggers, habituation does the opposite. This episode is packed with practical advice on how to start using habituation in your life, especially with the guidance of a therapist.
Patrick emphasizes the importance of professional support to ensure the process is both safe and effective. He also shares a list of recommended books and products that can aid in managing anxiety. Whether you're new to the concept or looking for new strategies to tackle anxiety, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to help you take control of your mental health.