Ten: “Mask of Tranquility”
“Mask of Tranquility”: 30 x 40 x 1.5 inches (Framed)
Ansel continues to make progress in his everlong battle with intrusive thoughts. The combination of speaking to a trained professional, exposure therapy, positive thinking and better living through science (i.e. - medications) has progressively made Ansel more comfortable interacting in reality with the world around him.
As Ansel continues to understand the complexities of his brain with more clarity, he’s begun to realize he’s a card-carrying member of the “masking” club.
“Mask of Tranquility”: 30 × 40 × 1.5 inches (Framed)
Masking is a psychological defense mechanism where individuals attempt to conceal their true feelings or emotions, often presenting a different image to the outside world. This can be particularly common in people suffering from anxiety and panic disorders.
As any clinician can attest, masking is only temporary relief from the true underlying issue(s). Similar to taking a cold suppressant when you have the sniffles, masking only serves to make living with the underlying disorders manageable in the short term.
Ansel is not letting the discovery of his prior and ongoing use of masking disrupt his positive momentum. If the situation calls for it, Ansel will not be too hard on himself if he has to “fake it until he makes it”. He is, however, committed to remaining self-aware of instances when he employs the method and is adding that to his long list of battles to tend to.
While Ansel's continued journey is trending positively, that journey is far from over……………….
“Mask of Tranquility”: 30 × 40 × 1.5 inches (Framed)
Some helpful non-fiction for the reader:
Here's how masking might manifest in individuals with anxiety and panic:
Overcompensation: Individuals may try to overachieve or excel in certain areas to distract from their internal turmoil or to prove their worth.
Excessive Positivity: They may constantly strive to maintain a positive demeanor, even when feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
People-Pleasing: A strong desire to please others can lead individuals to suppress their own needs and feelings to maintain social harmony.
Avoidance: Masking can involve avoiding situations or people that trigger anxiety or panic, creating a false sense of control.
Perfectionism: An unrelenting pursuit of perfection can be a way to mask feelings of inadequacy or fear of failure.
Why do people with anxiety and panic use masking?
Fear of Judgment: Individuals may fear being seen as weak, unstable, or incapable of handling stress.
Social Pressure: Societal expectations to be "strong" or "positive" can reinforce the urge to mask emotions.
Self-Preservation: Masking can be a way of protecting oneself from emotional pain or vulnerability.
While masking can provide temporary relief, it's important to note that it's not a sustainable solution. Over time, the effort to maintain a facade can lead to increased stress, burnout, and even worsening of anxiety symptoms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or panic, it's essential to seek professional help. A therapist can provide effective coping strategies, including techniques to manage anxiety and reduce the need for masking.