Disordered: Anxiety Help If Its Anxiety .... It MUST Be Trauma! (Episode 111)
May 30, 2025
This discussion dives into the misconception that all anxiety is rooted in trauma, advocating for a clearer distinction between difficult experiences and genuine trauma. The speakers explore the complexities of anxiety disorders and emphasize tailored approaches for recovery. They navigate the challenges of exposure therapy while highlighting personal stories of overcoming anxiety. A listener’s inspiring journey while delivering for Uber Eats adds humor and hope. The conversation wraps around managing anxiety during grief and the importance of processing emotions without judgment.
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Trauma Narrative Overcomplicates Anxiety Recovery
- The pervasive narrative that all anxiety is due to unhealed trauma oversimplifies and confuses recovery.
- This vague trauma focus can be particularly harmful to compulsive ruminators trying to recover from anxiety disorders.
Trauma Definition Has Overgrown
- The definition of trauma has expanded too broadly and now includes almost all difficulties.
- Not everything hard or hurtful qualifies as trauma that causes impairment needing healing.
Fear of Feelings Drives Anxiety
- Anxiety sufferers fear their feelings rather than the trauma itself.
- The core issue is their emotional responses, regardless of trauma origins.
