Avoiding vulnerability is a common pandas response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and pandas opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains PANDAS
- Concealing pandas from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when pandas is high is enormous
- Shame about pandas thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of pandas often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to PANDAS
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in pandas) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and pandas. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with PANDAS
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.