Posted by Dinah on September 13, 2011, at 12:22:36
In reply to Re: How long is a fair trial? » Dinah, posted by floatingbridge on September 13, 2011, at 9:10:38
If it is at all helpful...
I discussed this with my therapist today, because it touched on something we had discussed recently in therapy. He says that there are those who believe that intensity of feeling and the accompanying brain state can become addictive in a way, so that the brain craves the intensity - even negative intensity - when it is withdrawn. And that if someone can ride out that period of craving, the brain can readjust to the lowered intensity, and the craving and feelings of flatness can decrease. I'm paraphrasing, and I'm not sure how well I'm doing it.
I always assumed that what flatness I felt was a symptom of my underlying depression. Gradually it passed. I think my therapist encourages me to feel, or perhaps to live in the real world instead of in my brain, by playing emotional songs or watching emotional movies that I could not have tolerated without pain when I was overaroused. Even happy songs irritated my nerves at my most agitated.
For what it's worth. :) I thought I'd pass it on.
And yes, you do seem more grounded and less desperate. Although I also have the impression you've been around here less. I had hoped it was because you were feeling better, but perhaps that's a sign of apathy.
As little as I like headon meeting of problems, in the long run I suffer less distress when I do attempt it.
poster:Dinah
thread:996560
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20110902/msgs/996651.html