Human beings often find themselves in a state of fear and suffering that emerge from totally unknown places, leaving us confused and anxious about how to cope with our own emotions.

A revealing perspective is provided by Giovanni Arnaus, a therapist specializing in addiction. The root of our fear and suffering often lies in a deep ignorance of ourselves, and especially of our inner fears. According to Arnaus, many people live disconnected from their deepest feelings and inner knowing. This disconnection not only alters our ability to experience and process our emotions; it also leaves us open to anxiety. Anxiety is a symptom of this inner unknowing; it is the body and mind’s reaction to uncertainty about what we are concerned about and how we can resolve it. Arnaus’ proposal as a solution is clear.

Self-knowledge is essential. We must strive to understand how we feel, to discover the causes of our worries and, especially, what we deeply fear. Self-knowledge is often a painful process; it forces us to confront aspects of ourselves that we would rather never think about. But it is essential for healing and decreasing anxiety. Another of Arnaus’ proposals is self-acceptance. Accepting our fears does not imply renouncing them but accepting them as part of what it means to be human. This allows us to work with them constructively instead of letting them drive our behavior destructively. Herein perhaps lies one of the greatest significance of Arnaus in the realm of addictions, many of whose behaviors can be seen as attempts to flee or buffer fear and anxiety.

Therefore, by working in this direction, we release the chains of addiction and begin to walk towards a fuller and more conscious life. It is worth mentioning that this therapeutic approach is not limited exclusively to those who are struggling to get out of an addiction.

However, it is useful for all those who seek to understand their own emotions and improve their mental health. Giovanni Arnaus’ invitation is clear: know yourself.

Finally, this is an invitation to live a more authentic and liberated life.

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