For the Claire Weekes enthusiasts

[PT81]

I’m grappling with the difference between “putting up with” and acceptance.

She mentions this in her books and I’m wondering how to get from one to the other?

What have you told ourself when trying to make this transition?

[Beevee]

Putting up with: I can feel the symptoms but wish they would do one and leave me as soon as possible ( saying through gritted teeth).

Acceptance: I can feel the symptoms and they can stay for as long as they like. I’m ok about not feeling ok.

The transition happens at its own pace, you have to pass through “it” many times and get to the stage where you literally don’t care about the symptoms.

[PT81]

I wish it was that simply but I know I won’t. Have you passed through it? Thanks for sharing.

[Jeff1943 in reply to PT81]

"Putting up with" means you still hate every moment of your symptoms, you have not carried out your part of the agreement to co-exist with them for the time being.

If you wake up with anxiety you think "OMG! It's going to be one of those days!" Whereas you should wake up thinking "O.K., I'm going to feel high anxiety today. This gives me the chance to practice Acceptance which will help me recover!"

Remember, you now know you have nothing to fear because a dozen doctors have told you so, and we're having this conversation on an anxiety forum which you chose.

[PT81]

Thank you. That makes a lot of sense.