Desensitise yourself [Good information]

by **Butterfly Faerie** » Wed May 17, 2006 4:10 pm

Desensitise yourself
Developed by Wolpe in the 40's, 'systematic desensitisation' is a very effective, tried and tested method of becoming less sensitive to the stimulus, or subject, of your phobia.

Although normally applied by a therapist, you can use this as a self help method. It is a rather slow process so you will need patience and the determination to stick with it for weeks or even months.

Use desensitisation only on mild phobias
Mild or severe phobia?
Self help using desensitisation is not suitable for severe phobias because the emotions are likely to be too powerful for self help methods. A severe phobia is best resolved with professional assistance.

It is likely that you will know instinctively whether your's is a phobia that will respond to this self help approach. However as a rough guide check where your phobic reaction lies on an intensity scale of 1-10.

Imagine that 10 is the highest intensity - virtually being overwhelmed at the thought of the stimulus - and 1 is a mild 'ho-hum' uneasiness.

If your response to even thinking about the subject evokes an intensity of 8 or higher you would be well advised to seek professional help rather than attempting to do it by yourself. Below 8 indicates that self help methods are likely to work - with a systematic and persistent approach.

'Complex Phobias'
You can use desensitisation on 'complex phobias', such as fear of flying, and on 'social phobias'. However do prepare thoroughly as this will make the difference between success and disappointment.

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Desensitise yourself [Good information]

Desensitise yourself [Good information]

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