Is Taking Time Off for Anxiety Recovery Helpful or Harmful?
Episode Overview
The urge to take time off due to anxiety is normal but might not always help long-term recovery. Understand the difference between avoidance and strategic rest. Psychological flexibility is key in managing anxiety. Stay engaged with life even when taking a break. Be kind to yourself and be willing to adjust your approach.
It's normal to feel like you need to get away from bad experiences, but what feels right in the moment isn't always what's best for long-term recovery
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and considering taking time off from work or school? In this episode of The Anxious Truth, Drew Linsalata tackles the complex question of whether taking a break is beneficial or harmful for anxiety recovery. Drew dives into the nuances of this dilemma, exploring why the urge to take time off is normal but might not always be the best course of action for long-term recovery.
Through relatable examples and personal anecdotes, he discusses the paradox of anxiety recovery and the difference between avoidance and strategic rest. Drew uses stories of individuals like Sarah, Mike, and a college student with OCD to illustrate how different situations can lead to the desire for a break and what factors should be considered before making that decision. He emphasises that while rest is essential, it's crucial to stay engaged with life and not fall into the trap of avoidance.
The episode also touches on the importance of psychological flexibility and being kind to oneself when making these tough choices. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of how to approach this question and what steps to take if you decide that time off is necessary for your recovery journey. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on managing anxiety in your daily life.