Experiencing a desire to hold onto or not wanting to get rid of an anxiety attack might seem counterintuitive, but it's not an uncommon feeling for some individuals. This phenomenon can have several underlying reasons:
Familiarity: Anxiety, even when it's uncomfortable and distressing, can become familiar and almost like a "safe zone" for some people. Dealing with anxiety might feel more manageable than facing the unknown or potential changes that come with getting rid of it.
Avoidance coping: Some individuals may use anxiety as a way to avoid certain situations or responsibilities. It can serve as a coping mechanism to protect oneself from perceived threats or challenges, even if the anxiety itself is distressing.
Attention and validation: During an anxiety attack, individuals might receive attention and support from others. This attention can be reinforcing, making them hesitant to let go of the anxiety, as it has become associated with receiving care and understanding.
Fear of losing control: Anxiety attacks can be overwhelming, and the fear of losing control during an attack might make some individuals hesitant to actively try to stop it. They might worry that trying to eliminate the anxiety could lead to more distress.
Emotional avoidance: In some cases, individuals might struggle with expressing or processing their emotions. Anxiety can become a way to avoid dealing with deeper emotional issues that might be causing distress.
Learned behavior: Over time, some people may have learned that anxiety is their default response to stressors. Breaking away from this pattern might require significant effort and self-awareness.
It's important to note that while these reasons might explain why some individuals resist getting rid of anxiety attacks, holding onto anxiety is not a healthy or sustainable approach. Chronic anxiety can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health, so it's crucial to address the underlying issues and seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
If you find yourself experiencing this phenomenon, consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who can help you explore the root causes of your anxiety and work with you to develop healthier coping mechanisms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based therapies can be particularly helpful in managing anxiety and breaking free from patterns that keep you stuck in distressing states.