This is Why You're Afraid of Being Happy
The Dr. Leaf Show
Intro
Dr. Caroline Leaf opens the episode with sponsor messages and introduces the topic of anxiety triggered by joy after trauma.
Why do we sometimes panic when things finally get better? Why can rest, safety, or even joy register as unpredictable or unsafe?
In this episode, I walk you through what happens when a trauma-trained brain reacts to peace like it’s danger—and how your mind can gently redirect that response. You’ll learn what joy-triggered anxiety actually reflects, why the brain loops it so quickly, and how to retrain the pattern in a way that doesn’t rely on guilt or pressure.
If you're tired of waiting for the rug to be pulled out from under you, this video is for you.
📘 My new book Help in a Hurry is out now!
✏️ Rewire your mind, reclaim your peace, and save $50 on the new Help in a Hurry course—signed book included at www.helpinahurrycourse.com
Inside the book and course, I walk you through:
• How to interrupt trauma-trained reactions using the 5-step Neurocycle
• Tools for building joy tolerance gradually and intentionally
• Why your brain loops protective responses—and how your mind can step in
• Real language to redirect thought patterns in the moment
🧠 Explore the Neurocycle app: https://neurocycle.app
📨 Subscribe to Mental Mess Monday: https://drleaf.com/pages/newsletter
🎙️ Listen to all podcast episodes: https://drleaf.com/pages/podcast
🌐 Visit my website: https://www.drleaf.com
GET IN TOUCH:
📸 Instagram: / drcarolineleaf
🐦 Twitter: / drcarolineleaf
💻 Facebook: / drcarolineleaf
SPONSORS:
Nature's Sunshine: Nature's Sunshine is offering 20% off your first order plus free shipping. Go to naturessunshine.com and use the code DRLEAF at checkout.
MENO by O Positiv: Get 25% off your first purchase with code DRLEAF at checkout or visit opositiv.com/drleaf
Nurture Life: Head to NurtureLife.com/DRLEAF and use code DRLEAF for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping.
DISCLAIMER: This podcast and blog are for educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a professional for personalized support.
#JoyAfterTrauma #TraumaHealing #DrCarolineLeaf #Neurocycle #HelpInAHurry #MindAndBrain #PostTraumaAnxiety #EmotionalSafety #BrainRewiring #HabitRecovery #MentalHealthTools #PsychologyPodcast
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