
Emotional alienation is a common symptom that is seen in a variety of different mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. This type of alienation describes the feeling of being disconnected or isolated from the world, other people, and even yourself.
Some common causes of emotional alienation are family dynamics, traumatic events, mental or physical conditions, and the use of social media. In addition to feeling distant, rejected, or unwanted, someone experiencing alienation might suffer from physical pain and low self-confidence or self-esteem.
Seeking proper treatment and support is crucial to avoid major negative effects on overall mental health and wellness. This is where emotionally focused therapy (EFT) comes into play. Read on to learn more about EFT and how can it help with emotional alienation.
What Is Emotionally Focused Therapy?
EFT is a powerful therapy option, especially for individuals who are struggling with emotional alienation. This type of therapy focuses on providing individuals with a safe and secure space to explore and process their emotions. The goal is to help people strengthen their emotional connections with themselves and others.
How EFT Can Help with Emotional Alienation
The EFT process allows individuals to better understand their own wants and needs. Taking the time to better understand oneself is a key part of facilitating healthier relationship patterns with others.
Over time, EFT can drastically help a person move from feeling extremely isolated and alone to being able to form greater emotional connections. Let’s take a look at some of the key aspects of EFT that can help individuals heal from emotional alienation.
Attachment Theory
The attachment theory is a concept that explains how the relationship between an infant and their primary can impact one’s life moving forward. The type of attachment that is formed can shape and mold a person well into adulthood.
Attachment theory is an important element of EFT, which recognizes how important a secure bond is in helping to reduce feelings of alienation. This recognition and acknowledgment can help individuals better understand how their past relationships can shape their futures.
Emotional Focus
When someone experiences an adverse life event, it can be difficult to want to openly talk about or feel those emotions. EFT can help individuals better identify their own emotions and then validate them. The EFT process can help individuals openly express their feelings. This is a great step toward being able to address and change those feelings of disconnectedness and isolation.
Empathy
Alienation doesn’t just go away on its own. One of the main reasons that EFT works so well is that therapists can create a safe space for clients. This allows them to feel comfortable expressing themselves and sharing their past experiences without feeling judged. Instead of judging, therapists can actively listen and even validate their clients’ thoughts and feelings.
Processing
EFT sessions can often involve role-playing or reenactment. These types of scenarios can help clients see different sides of certain situations while working through the different areas that may have made them feel alienated in the first place.
Restructuring
Restructuring can happen once an individual and their therapist identify negative communication patterns. The process of EFT involves helping individuals learn new skills so they’re able to express their different wants, needs, and insecurities to others. This process allows them to build more positive and healthier relationships.
Is EFT Right for You?
EFT is considered a highly effective therapy option for individuals and couples, and it can greatly benefit those suffering from emotional alienation. If you or a loved one are interested in exploring emotionally focused therapy, we’re here to help when you’re ready. Reach out today to set up an initial consultation.