Distraction can do you good in these situations – and not in this one

psychology
Distraction can do you good in these situations – and not in this one

Distraction gets a bad rap. On Instagram, TikTok and in advice books it says that we should allow every feeling that comes up, feel it and then let it go. And of course there isn’t necessarily anything wrong with that. After all, denial doesn’t help in the long run, and being in touch with your emotions is an important step in being able to regulate them.

But there are definitely situations in which it doesn’t help us to get more and more into unpleasant feelings and to literally wallow in them. Because that can only intensify the psychological problems in some cases and start a negative spiral. Mental health expert Mitzi Bockmann explains this on “Your Tango”.

Here are three examples where it may be healthier to distract yourself — and one situation where that’s not the right strategy.

3 situations in which distraction can help you

1. If you’ve been through the situation before

You already know the trigger and the feelings that are haunting you right now? Perhaps you have experienced a similar situation before. Of course, while it’s far from nice that you have to go through such difficult emotions again, it can also be comforting. Because you know from experience that eventually they will pass. In this case, Mitzi Bockmann recommends distracting yourself from the situation. Maybe you put on your favorite music, read something, or exercise. Whatever helps you to endure these unpleasant but not permanent feelings and to be able to let go more easily.

2. When you’re doing something you enjoy

Another situation where distraction can help you, according to the expert, is when you have nice plans. You may find it difficult to rouse yourself to your girlfriend date or yoga class when you’re really down. But deep down, you probably know that doing something nice makes you feel better. Of course, this does not apply to meetings with people who drain your energy rather than give it, or other unpleasant to-dos. But having something planned that typically makes you feel better can be just the right distraction when you really want to hole up.

3. If it works

Sounds simple, but it is very important: Have you found a form of distraction that helps you? Then stick with it. If there is something specific that has triggered your negative feelings or depressed mood and you find that something helps you deal with it, then move on with it. It doesn’t matter whether it’s singing, cooking, cleaning or a phone call with a loved one – because what is good for us personally is very individual and therefore not always easy to find out. Ask yourself regularly and consciously: Does that help me to accept and live through the situation? If you feel like it’s just a tad more bearable, then stick with it.

… and when you shouldn’t distract yourself

If you’re suffering from depression or anxiety, distraction isn’t always the best option. Especially if they are not triggered by a specific situation, but are of a chronic nature. So if you feel very bad for a longer period of time without a specific trigger. In this case, you should talk to your doctor or a therapist about how you can tackle the problem together so that you feel better soon.

Sources used: yourtango.com, psychologytoday.com

This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace medical or therapeutic advice. If you suspect you are suffering from a mental illness, we recommend that you speak to a doctor or therapist.

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Bridget