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Derek S. Some concrete goals

Discussion in 'Ask a TMS Therapist' started by Lexington, Nov 19, 2015.

  1. Lexington

    Lexington Peer Supporter

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    Question
    Hi can you recommend some daily physical goals to get me out of bed please? Day 4 of spectacular relapse that nearly had my husband calling for an ambulance on the first evening. I am doing the emotional work but need some goals for getting moving. My fear is holding me back. I feel as if now I am getting to my really repressed emotions I should be doing a Lazurus type trick physically. Then it's disappointing when going to the toilet is agony and 10 minutes on my feet feels like I ran a marathon. I had previously spent 6 weeks getting over first episode but was never bed bound! Thanks so much.
    Lexington
     
  2. Derek Sapico MFT

    Derek Sapico MFT TMS Therapist

    Answer
    Thanks for your question, Lexington.

    Without knowing the details of your physical situation, it's difficult for me to formulate specific physical goals for you. Plus I'm a therapist so thoughts and feelings are more my bag.

    I don't think the physical part is nearly as critical as the thoughts and behavior accompanying the activity. You mention fear and disappointment being big parts of your day to day life. I would first focus on the fear by challenging yourself to walk to the bathroom while soothing your primitive brain using breathing techniques and self talk. Remind yourself that there is nothing wrong with you physically and that if you do not reinforce the symptoms with fear and attention, they will recede. Do this relentlessly but be kind and understanding with yourself. It's ok if this takes some time because you are doing something very important.

    Do not fall into the trap of making symptom reduction your primary goal. You are not trying to change the symptoms, you are trying to change your response to them. If you focus on the symptom, you reinforce the pain mechanism. The symptoms will go when your response to them changes.

    Also, try not to get deflated, discouraged, or disempowered by the presence of symptoms. Expect the symptoms to come and view each symptom as an opportunity to practice outcome independence and to create shiny new neural pathways.

    Be patient with yourself and patient with this process.

    Good luck!

    -Derek


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