The Cure for Chronic Pain with Nicole Sachs, LCSW cover image

The Cure for Chronic Pain with Nicole Sachs, LCSW

S4 E10 - When Joy and Excitement Feel Dangerous

Mar 7, 2025
Dive into the complexities of feeling joy and excitement, and why these "good" emotions can sometimes feel overwhelming. Discover how societal pressures and family dynamics can lead to unconscious guilt around happiness. Through personal stories, explore the deep connection between emotions and physical health, revealing how emotional distress can manifest as chronic symptoms. This insightful discussion encourages embracing all feelings for a healthier mindset.
29:10

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Experiencing joy can lead to physical discomfort, revealing how positive emotions trigger the nervous system similar to negative feelings.
  • Emotional safety in childhood significantly influences adult reactions to joy, with suppression of happiness often stemming from fear of disapproval.

Deep dives

The Impact of Positive Emotions on Health

Experiencing joy and excitement can sometimes lead to physical symptoms such as pain or discomfort, as evidenced by personal anecdotes shared. A notable example is the speaker's son, who developed stomach aches that were ultimately linked to overwhelming feelings of anticipation and excitement. This illustrates how positive emotions, much like negative ones, can trigger the nervous system and manifest in physical pain. Understanding this connection emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing all emotions, regardless of their perceived positivity or negativity.

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