Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.

Episode 3672:

Ingrid Y. Helander explores how avoidance silently undermines key areas of life - from work and health to relationships and finances, and reveals how small, compassionate steps can interrupt this cycle. Her gentle, evidence-backed approach helps listeners face discomfort without self-blame, empowering lasting emotional and behavioral change.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ingridyhelanderlmft.com/6-life-areas-youre-avoiding-and-4-ways-to-stop/

Quotes to ponder:

"Avoiding can become a way of life if you’re not careful, robbing you of time, relationship, money, fun and other pleasures."

"Basically avoidance is a habitual coping skill, aimed at reducing pain that is reinforced each time you do it."

"Avoidance is trying to save your system from pain. Granted, avoiding things and people creates more pain over time, but in the moment, it can feel pretty darn good."

Episode references:

Avoidance Coping by Elizabeth Scott, MS: https://www.verywellmind.com/avoidance-coping-ways-to-cope-with-stress-3144664

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices