You’re not alone. 411,000+ real posts from people who showed up for each other. Read a thread, share a win, leave a tip - your words could be the nudge someone needs today.

today's top discussions:

logo

Coping With Depression When Everyday Tasks Feel Overwhelming

robertowens12

2026-06-17 8:49 AM

Depression Community

logo

I Was Drowning in Depression for 2 Years - Then THIS One Decision Changed Everything

anthonydefranco

2026-06-17 2:50 AM

Depression Community

logo

addiction

Timbo637

2026-06-06 4:31 PM

Quit Smoking Community

logo

Haven?t told anyone I?m quitting

Timbo637

2026-05-23 3:25 PM

Quit Smoking Community

This Month’s Leaders:

Most Supportive

Anonymous47 2 2

Most Active

Timbo637 Posts: 1 Threads: 0
anthonydefranco Posts: 1 Threads: 1
robertowens12 Posts: 1 Threads: 1

Most Loved

anthonydefranco 1
robertowens12 1

Browse through 411.792 posts in 47.079 threads.

162,726 Members

Please welcome our newest members: Murali, DMICEK89, Tweetbird, gavinday1977, Red Robin

The problem with avoidance


Ashley -> Health Educator
  • My Logo
Ashley -> Health Educator
  • My Logo
16 years ago 0 11226 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Members,

 

When we avoid things due to anxiety, we miss out. As you probably already know, escaping the situation you find yourself in when you have a anxiety can lead to problems.

 

  • Problem 1: Some situations are more difficult to avoid than others. For instance, if you have a fear of snakes but you live in the city, it’s probably not a huge cause for concern. Chances are you’ll only be exposed to them at the zoo or pet store. However, if a person fears wide open spaces, crowds, shopping malls or riding in public transportation it can cause a much bigger problem.
  • Problem 2: Escaping & avoiding situations works well to reduce anxiety in the short-term. However, in the long-term avoidance makes things worse. The problem is that escaping works too well. When you escape a situation, you receive immediate relief. The result is you become really good at escaping and avoiding. When you think about it, not dealing with problems isn’t what you want to be good at.
How long did you avoid quitting? Doesn't it feel much better to face your fears, problems and addictions head on?
 
What are your thoughts?
 
Ashley, Health Educator

Here to help :)


Sign in to reply Register new account

Reading this thread:

We use cookies to help us learn about how our platform is used and how we can improve your experience. To learn more please see our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

More Information