Pain vs Suffering
Jul 17, 2017
Pain vs. Suffering in OCD and Anxiety
When discussing OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), anxiety, or panic attacks, it is vital to acknowledge the profound pain these experiences cause. According to Matt, both from personal experience and general consensus, these are deeply painful conditions. Pain, in this context, is the immediate distress or discomfort felt during an OCD episode or anxiety attack.
However, suffering, described by Matt, particularly refers to the ongoing and prolonged distress over weeks, months, or even years. Understanding that while pain is inevitable, suffering is optional can be a game-changing perspective in OCD treatment.
The Power of Behavioral Change
Matt emphasizes that prolonged suffering is linked to our daily behaviors and the choices we make. While no one chooses to develop OCD or anxiety, the decisions we make in response to these conditions can either perpetuate suffering or alleviate it.
The Monkey Trap Analogy
To illustrate this, Matt shares the analogy of a monkey trap used in certain parts of the world:
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A coconut is hollowed out, chained, and filled with the monkey’s favorite food.
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The monkey can easily slip its hand inside to grab the food, but struggles to pull its hand out once it forms a fist.
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If the monkey simply let go, it could free itself, but anxiety and fear prevent it from considering other options.
This example shows how OCD sufferers get trapped in a similar manner; their response to anxiety often keeps them stuck. By stepping back and evaluating other choices, they can escape the cycle of compulsive behaviors.
The Bee Trap Analogy
Another powerful story is the bee trap from Dr. Alan Wegg's book “OCD Treatment Through Storytelling”:
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A bottle with honey hardens inside is used to attract bees.
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Once inside, bees instinctively fly towards the light at the top, hitting the tape wrapped around the bottle, unable to find their way out.
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The exit is at the bottom, but they perpetually fly upwards, mistaking the dark route as dangerous.
Similar to bees, people with OCD often follow their initial instincts to avoid anxiety, which keeps them trapped. Facing their fears directly and allowing themselves to experience and habituate to anxiety can lead to freedom.
Making the Choice to Change
As Matt reiterates, suffering with OCD and anxiety is a choice once different options are considered. By:
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Facing fears
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Allowing oneself to experience anxiety without engaging in compulsive behaviors
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Making conscious decisions to break the OCD cycle
Individuals can progressively work towards freedom from prolonged suffering.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between pain and suffering is essential in comprehensively treating OCD and anxiety. By changing responses and behaviors, one can alleviate long-term suffering and find liberation from the crippling effects of these conditions.
