Episode 5: Even If (Anxiety and the Unconditional)

How are we supposed to deal with the anxiety of living in an uncertain world when, sometimes, the worst-case scenario really does happen?  What is anxiety trying to do for us at an IFS parts-of-the-mind level?  Is unconditionality a thing you have or don't, or is it a gradient, a hierarchy?  And what options do we have even when we know we'll have to walk through the fire?

(Content notice: child loss in the context of a Bible story, from 33:15 to 36:10)

References:

"A World of Dew," by Kobayashi Issa: https://allpoetry.com/a-world-of-dew

Scripture Cited: Habakkuk 3:16–19, Isaiah 43:1b-5a, Daniel 3:17–18, and 2 Kings 4:1-37

Timestamp for the start of the “big medical bills” example: 17:15

With All Your Psyche explores topics related to mental health, relationships, and faith, but it's not a substitute for therapy or professional care - though it might give you some ideas to bring up with your own therapist or pastor! If something you hear on this podcast brings up personal concerns for you, or if you need support in other areas of your life, please reach out to a licensed professional such as myself or others you can find through the therapist directory at PsychologyToday.com.