Coping Methods - Having Trouble Reaching My "Safe Place"

[Sasha]

Hi there, I could really use your feedback and advice.

I am somewhat at a stand still in going forward in EMDR/discussing memories because of the overwhelming emotions involved. We have discussed a 'safe place', but for some reason, I can't go there. Maybe I don't know how, maybe I don't trust going away there.

For some reason, everything in me says, 'its not real, it won't work, this is strange', vulnerable. I feel resistant, a true mental block. :wall: I'm able to think about my place - it's a nice thought, but that's as far as it goes.

I question, how does one just 'go to their safe place' (for example) in the middle of an interview or something important? How does this work.

Are there alternative coping methods to dealing with overwhelming emotions associated with flashbacks or memories during treatment?

I'm going to discuss this more with my Therapist, but it would be nice to hear of your experiences and feedback.

Thanks, it means a lot.

 

[cragger65]

Hi Sasha,

You're definately not the only one to have troubles with this. I find it very difficult to stay focused on a serene image in my mind, let alone become absorbed in it to the point I feel at peace. Deep regular breathing does help me some when the anxiety spikes up, as well as some relaxation CDs. I think different things work better for different people, it's not as simple as one size fits all.

Pictures of baby animals also helps me sometimes, thought I'd share a couple. Just keep trying to find things that work for you.

Dave

 

[Sasha]

Thanks Cragger, those are the sweetest little things I've seen in a long time. I really love baby animals too. It certainly brings me even more nice feelings than
what I thought of as my safe place. Just adorable. Thanks : )

 

[wattle]

When I first started therapy my old psychologist asked me to invent a relaxing place that I could use as a safe place, I invented the place, made it seem very relaxing with what I put into the scene but for the life of me , when I actually needed a safe place I could never get to it. The psycholigist I see now suggested instead of using an imaginary place I use a real place that I'd been to in the past that I found very relaxing.
When I do all my deep breathing and body scan stuff, I usually end it all by mentally going to the safe place. Practicing going there everyday and using a real place instead of imaginary has helped a lot.

 

[bonnecanyon]

Cragger

Those are the cutest little critters I have ever seen! Awwww - melts my heart. Thank you for sharing those.

BC