Hidden discomfort is an interesting phenomenon in which we find ourselves habituating to a state of discomfort without even realizing it. We feel bad, but we get used to it and fail to recognize that this feeling should not be our norm. This adaptation is both physical and psychological, and is generally an indication that there are aspects of our lives that we need to review and adjust.
Getting used to pain: A phenomenon human
We are creatures of adaptation. With time, we can acclimatize to almost any environment, circumstance, or emotional state we find ourselves in. This can be a great strength; It allows us to survive and thrive in incredibly difficult situations. But it can also be a weakness, when we adapt to feeling bad and begin to accept this discomfort as a normal part of our lives.
Considering our base standard
In psychology, there is a concept known as homeostasis, which translates an incessant tendency to maintain internal stability. To a large extent, our perception of well-being operates in the same way. We have developed an ability to 'reset' our emotional set point, which can be advantageous when recovering from an adverse event. However, it can be problematic if our "reset" is at a lower set point than it should be.
How we adapt to discomfort
Unconscious Acceptance
Instead of fighting uncomfortable feelings, we occasionally decide to simply accept them as a new normal. This can be especially true when these feelings set in gradually over time. Without the contrast of a notable "before" and "after", it is easy to slip into a state of chronic discomfort without recognizing how much things have really changed.
Denial of discomfort
Denying that we feel bad can be a way of adapting to a new normal. We often use denial as a tool to avoid facing our problems. Of course, this only serves to prolong, and often worsen, our problems in the long run.
Unmasking hidden discomfort
Self-examination
The first step in identifying and treating hidden discomfort is to undertake an honest and routine self-examination. This may involve checking in with ourselves at least once a day, simply to record how we are feeling. This type of self-examination can help us identify patterns and instigate changes.
Seeking help
It's not easy to unravel our emotions and behaviors and it can be even more challenging when we try to do it alone. By seeking the help of a psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental health counselor, we can gain a new perspective on our struggles, as well as tools and strategies to cope with and overcome our discomfort.
Reminder of better times
Revisiting past moments when we felt genuinely good can be a useful strategy for recognizing and addressing hidden discomfort. By doing so, we can be motivated to seek ways to regain these states of true well-being, rather than accepting a state of constant discomfort.
Conclusion
Hidden discomfort is a fascinating concept that It reminds us of the human being's ability to adapt, even to the most difficult situations and moods. However, it is important to remember that we are not condemned to accept a life of constant discomfort. By paying attention to our emotions, seeking help if necessary, and remembering times when we have felt good, we can point out our hidden discomforts and take steps to overcome them.