The Therapeutic Tool of Unwilling Acceptance
Image by Dustin Humes
The concept of unwilling acceptance.
We have all heard Carl Jung’s quote, “What you resist, persists.”
Our unconscious spaces are very good at amplifying focus on what we push against. Unwilling acceptance allows the client to accept the reality of the situation without having to like it. Then resistance ceases and the client can shift focus away from the inconvenience, fear or injustice and onto aspects of the experience they can work with. Unwilling acceptance also saves the client energy because the client shifts focus onto their assets and resources much faster, which is a much more effective use of mental energy than pushing against a situation that cannot be changed.
Unwilling acceptance can be a useful strategy in certain situations as it allows individuals to navigate through challenging circumstances and ultimately find a useful way to move forward. By practicing unwilling acceptance, individuals acknowledge and recognize the reality of a situation that they may not be able to change or control. Instead of resisting or fighting against it, they choose to accept it, despite their initial reluctance or unwillingness. This strategy can be particularly helpful in situations where resistance may cause prolonged stress, frustration, or emotional turmoil.
Unwilling acceptance promotes mental resilience and adaptability.
It allows individuals to conserve their energy and focus on things they can control or change, rather than expending it on futile efforts to alter an unchangeable situation. It fosters a sense of useful surrender and letting go, freeing individuals from the burden of constantly battling against circumstances beyond their control. This approach encourages individuals to shift their perspective, seek opportunities for growth and personal development, and find inner peace by embracing the reality of the situation. Ultimately, by practicing unwilling acceptance, individuals can cultivate a sense of inner strength, emotional well-being, and a greater ability to navigate the ups and downs of life.
Using unwilling acceptance to treat panic attacks
In hypnotherapy, the strategy of unwilling acceptance can be employed to effectively treat clients who experience panic attacks. By guiding the client into a relaxed and suggestible state, the therapist creates a safe and supportive environment where the client can confront and accept the reality of their panic attacks, even if they may initially resist or fear them. Unwilling acceptance allows the client to acknowledge and validate their experience without judgment, reducing the resistance and fear associated with panic attacks. When resistance drops away, the fear that fuels the panic attack reduces significantly.
Through guided imagery, relaxation techniques, and suggestion, the therapist can help the client reframe their perception of panic attacks, promoting a sense of calm, control, and inner strength. By embracing their experience with unwilling acceptance, the client can develop coping mechanisms, explore the underlying causes of their panic attacks, and learn to manage and reduce their frequency and intensity, ultimately leading to greater emotional well-being and an improved quality of life.
It's important to note that while hypnotherapy can be a helpful adjunct to mental health, it should not replace medical advice or treatment. It's recommended to consult with healthcare professionals who specialize in mental health to develop a comprehensive approach to address your specific condition. Hypnotherapy is a very useful, natural treatment that can safely supplement medical treatment.
Author - Andrea Loughran Hypnotherapist
The Beautiful Mind Hypnotherapy