Obsessions and compulsions are intricate threads woven into the fabric of trauma, often serving as coping mechanisms for emotional distress. In this blog, we delve into insights from Pete Walker's book, "The Tao of Fully Feeling," to understand how obsessions and compulsions develop in the context of developmental trauma and explore the nuanced ways they can provide a form of relief.

**Understanding Obsessions and Compulsions:**

**1. **Trauma's Impact on the Emotional Landscape:**

   Walker emphasizes that trauma, particularly attachment based trauma, disrupts our emotional landscape, leaving us with overwhelming feelings that are challenging to process. Obsessions and compulsions can emerge as attempts to gain a sense of control or escape from this emotional turbulence.

**2. **Developmental Trauma and Coping Mechanisms:**

   The book highlights the connection between developmental trauma and the formation of coping mechanisms. Developmental trauma includes physical, emotional, mental, and sexual abuse. Neglect and the lack of emotional attunement are often overlooked childhood traumas as well. Obsessions and compulsions may develop as adaptive strategies to navigate the challenges of early life, offering a semblance of order in the midst of emotional chaos.

**3. **Hyperarousal and Hypoarousal States:**

   Walker introduces the concepts of hyperarousal (overstimulation) and hypoarousal (understimulation). Obsessions can be a product of hyperarousal, providing a distraction from overwhelming emotions, while compulsions may arise from hypoarousal, serving as a way to stimulate a numbed emotional state.

**How Obsessions and Compulsions Help:**

**1. **Distraction and Emotional Regulation:**

   Obsessions often act as distractions, redirecting focus from intense emotional pain. In this way, they serve as a form of emotional regulation, temporarily alleviating distress by engaging the mind in repetitive thoughts.

**2. **Sense of Control:**

   Compulsions, on the other hand, offer a sense of control in situations where the individual may have felt powerless. The repetitive actions can create a predictable environment, providing a semblance of mastery over one's surroundings.

**3. **Avoidance and Numbing:**

   Both obsessions and compulsions can contribute to avoidance – a way to sidestep confronting painful emotions directly. They may also serve as a numbing mechanism, helping individuals temporarily escape the intensity of their feelings.

**Navigating the Healing Path:**

**1. **Self-Compassion and Awareness:**

   Walker encourages cultivating self-compassion as a crucial step in healing. By becoming aware of the function of obsessions and compulsions, individuals can approach themselves with kindness, acknowledging these patterns as adaptive responses rather than personal failings.

**2. **Gradual Exposure and Processing:**

   The book suggests a gradual exposure to underlying emotions, allowing individuals to face and process the core wounds that fuel obsessions and compulsions. This therapeutic approach aims to address the root causes rather than merely managing symptoms.

**3. **Integration of Mind and Body:**

   "The Tao of Fully Feeling" emphasizes integrating mind and body in the healing process. This involves reconnecting with bodily sensations, fostering mindfulness, and developing a comprehensive understanding of how trauma has impacted both the psyche and the physical self.

**Conclusion:**

Obsessions and compulsions, as explored through the lens of developmental trauma and Pete Walker's insights, are multifaceted responses to trauma. By acknowledging the origins of these strategies and understanding how they offer a temporary sense of relief, individuals can embark on a compassionate journey toward healing. Walker's approach encourages embracing the Tao of fully feeling – a path that involves acknowledging, processing, and integrating the complex tapestry of emotions woven throughout one’s life.

Remember, these strategies are not one-size-fits-all. It's essential to tailor these approaches to your individual needs and seek the guidance of a qualified trauma therapist. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a professional for help. There is 24/7 help at the crisis line #988.

We are also available to help those living in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Georgia, and Florida; complete our CONTACT FORM and someone will be in touch with you to schedule a free consultation.

Keywords: Obsessions, Compulsions, Coping Mechanisms, Pete Walker, The Tao of Fully Feeling, Developmental Trauma, Emotional Regulation

*Disclaimer: The information in this blog is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for mental health care nor a recommendation or endorsement for any particular treatment plan, organization, provider, professional service, or product. The information may change without notice. No claims, promises, or guarantees are made about the completeness, accuracy, currency, content or quality of information linked. You assume all responsibility and risk for any use of the information.

IFS EMDR Therapy Group is an outpatient therapy group founded by Morgan Levine. We specialize in helping adults struggling with the effects of living in dysfunctional systems move toward healing and wholeness. We provide therapy to address symptoms such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, obsessive and compulsive thoughts and behaviors including but not limited to using work, perfectionism, substances, relationships, food, etc. We offer ongoing support as well as EMDR intensives; both of which are informed by IFS, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Polyvagal Theory, trauma-informed yoga, attachment, and other recovery principles. Our therapists work virtually with clients living throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.  Morgan Levine also provides trauma-informed consultation to therapists worldwide. Connect with us through our website at https://ifsemdrtherapy.com/contact-us.