THE RELIEF OF SYMPTOMS FOR SELF-MANAGEMENT OF ANXIETY: REGRESSION AND SEQUENCES OF THOUGHT
We have already discussed the mechanisms by which relaxation and regression of themselves work to reduce anxiety. Tension is eased, and so also are all the various symptoms which are the direct or indirect manifestations of anxiety. However, once we have mastered the relaxation of the body, the relaxation of the mind, and regression, we are in a position to use a more direct approach to the relief of symptoms and the promotion of better responses to life situations.
In its simplest form this consists of presenting to our mind very simple ideas for improvement while still in the relaxed and regressed state.
Regression and Sequences of Thought-We have discussed the idea of regression at some length as a process by which we drift back to a simple and more primitive way of mental functioning in which we cease to be alert and critical. In it we leave our mind to wander uncontrolled as in a state of reverie. Now that we have achieved this state of affairs we can go a step further. We can exert some control over our mind, but at the same time maintain our regression. This type of control must be very simple and primitive in itself, or it will bring us to be alert and critical, and our regression will immediately be lost.
The basis for the relief of our symptoms lies in the introduction of very simple trains of thought while we are still in our relaxed and regressed state of mind. It is emphasized that the trains of thought must be simple and direct or we will not be able to maintain our regression. The maintenance of the regression as we consider the train of thought is all-important. Without the regression the therapeutic train of thought has little or no effect at all.
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