Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Are you emotionally paralyzed?


The English dictionary defines paralysis as “loss of voluntary movement as a result of damage to nerve or muscle function” and “failure to take action or make progress”. People often think of physical paralysis when they hear the word paralyzed. But this can take place emotionally as well. As individuals, we may have been hurt emotionally. Hurt due to rejection, abandonment, lack of emotional support, criticism, abuse, etc. This causes emotional damage, which can result in lack of progress in our lives.

Ever wonder why sometimes women are so bitter/cold towards each other? Why some women, even teenage girls often say they prefer male friendships over female?  Or why some men have difficulty committing in relationships? It’s easier to distance ourselves or remain detached than to risk being hurt again.  Anger is sometimes used as a shield to protect us from feeling vulnerable.  When an individual has difficulty forming meaningful relationships, there may be an underlying fear. It is scary to consider exposing your true feelings and risk experiencing that hurt again. So in turn, we become emotionally paralyzed, stagnant, and fearful of experiencing more hurt or damage. But, to remain in this emotional state prevents us from growing.

As a result, we also risk loosing the possibility of forming a loving, meaningful relationship. We risk loosing the possibility of receiving love, loving others, and loving ourselves. And there is no greater feeling than the feeling that you are loved. This holiday season, take the necessary steps to release any fear that may be hindering you from accepting love or loving others.
 
*Blog contributed by Shaketa Robinson-Bruce, LPC. Shaketa is a therapist at New Vision Counseling Center, LLC who works with children, adolescents and adults providing individual, family and couples therapy. Info in this blog is strictly the writer's personal and/or professional opinion. Posts and comments are not intended to treat, diagnose or replace any medical advice you may have received. Please contact your doctor or therapist if you feel you need help, and in case of an emergency, dial 911. To learn more about Mrs. Robinson-Bruce and the services she offers at NVCC, click here.*

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