Anxiety and mindfulness in the dating world
People dealing with anxiety and depressive disorders often experience significant reduction in symptoms through mindfulness therapy. Mindfulness techniques are also used to decrease anxiety over future events, providing a break from stressful thoughts and allowing mental space for gaining perspective.
Corinne sunk into my couch, defeated. “Once again, this guy I just went out with turned out to be a complete jerk. Are there any good guys left out there??” Corinne did not need me to counsel her on avoiding jerks in the dating world. We had to look deeper.
We began to explore what had happened and dissected not only the events of that date, but also her role in what had transpired. Corinne was so anxious about finding a partner that would meet her expectations that she often made choices that made her personal life worse.
We talked about how she felt the need to calm her anxiety by drinking. She believed that drinking gave her confidence, making her feel like she was funnier and more intelligent in conversation.
Eventually Corinne conceded that although she felt this way after that first drink, she would ultimately drink too much. She sighed heavily and admitted, “I acted like a fool. I was just trying to have a good time and make a good impression. I am so embarrassed.” Corinne knew drinking wasn’t the answer.
As we began discussing her fears and the pain of her past experiences, I introduced her to mindfulness therapy.
People with anxiety disorders often experience a significant reduction in symptoms by practicing mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness can also be used to decrease anxiety over future events, providing a break from stressful thoughts and allowing you the mental space to gain some perspective.
Mindfulness therapy proved beneficial and essential to Corinne’s healing, helping her move forward with healthier choices.
BASIC MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES
Robin Maier is a licensed clinical social worker who uses a gentle therapeutic approach to guide women in every stage of life toward greater happiness
