Why Trying to Relax Can Increase Anxiety for Some
The paradoxical effect of relaxation techniques on anxious individuals
1The Relaxation Paradox
Studies show relaxation techniques like meditation may increase anxiety in predisposed individuals, termed 'relaxation-induced anxiety'. Psychologists attribute this to perceived vulnerability when lowering psychological defenses against potential threats.
2Intentional Worry Mechanism
Researchers found some individuals consciously maintain anxiety as preparatory defense. Prof. Michelle Newman explains the brain reinforces the false belief that worrying prevents negative outcomes through operant conditioning.
3Emotional State Sensitivity
The study with 96 participants revealed anxiety disorder patients show heightened sensitivity to emotional shifts. While less pronounced, depression patients also demonstrated increased anxiety during relaxation attempts.
4Protective Anxiety Trap
Experts describe chronic worry as maladaptive emotional insurance. The brain misinterprets correlation between worrying and absence of catastrophe as causation, perpetuating this counterproductive cycle.
5Therapeutic Interventions
Mindfulness training helps individuals accept emotional fluctuations. Controlled exposure to relaxation may help rewire neural pathways, developing healthier coping mechanisms over time.
6Clinical Implications
Findings underscore the need for personalized relaxation protocols in anxiety treatment. Lead author Hanjoo Kim suggests these insights could inform development of more effective therapeutic approaches for vulnerable populations.
Original article: PsyBlog — Rahatlama Çabası Kaygıyı Artırabilir