The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers Episode 6: Avoidance
Oct 2, 2022
This discussion dives into the psychological concept of experiential avoidance and its impact on mental health. It challenges the notion that happiness can be achieved without engaging with pain. Personal narratives illustrate the importance of confronting grief and embracing emotions for healing. The philosophy of early desert Christians encourages listeners to endure struggles rather than avoid them. Lament Psalms are highlighted as a powerful tool for processing suffering and finding divine comfort.
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Grieving Father's Death
- Dr. Nabb shares a personal story about grieving his father's death.
- He initially avoided his sadness but later learned to accept it as a valuable signal.
Dashboard Metaphor
- Emotions function like dashboard lights, signaling important information about our inner state.
- Ignoring these signals, like ignoring dashboard lights, won't resolve underlying issues.
Defining Experiential Avoidance
- Experiential avoidance is struggling to accept unpleasant inner experiences.
- These experiences include difficult thoughts, feelings, sensations, memories, and images.