Avoiding Too Much?
Distancing is really helpful for very intense experiences of gender dysphoria and is always an appropriate response to anti-trans harm and triggers of gender dysphoria. BUT, if we use distancing too much we can end up feeling lonely and isolated because we are avoiding living our lives. It is important that we check in with ourselves and make sure we are not utilizing distancing too much.
There are a few ways you can notice if you are relying on distancing too often:
- You find yourself always distancing from social events or opportunities and are feeling lonely or alone.
- You start to feel numb or emotionally empty.
- You find yourself not getting the same joy out of life due to avoiding too many events or places.
Keep in mind that when the discomfort feels too overwhelming, it’s okay to take a break, but otherwise, try out other strategies to handle it.