Do you have any tips for fighting regression? I’ve been regressing a lot more recently and I’m concerned about going into work.
Fighting regression is something I cannot earnestly recommend, but I understand that it is something people have to cope with. A lot of times regression is an involuntary thing that comes with dealing with trauma- so applying grounding techniques is a good place to start!
1. Breathe! I cannot stress this enough. Make sure you’re breathing enough, you’re breathing deeply, and you’re keeping a cadence. Mind your breath. To avoid regression, instead of doing calming or relaxing breaths, try ones that help you feel alert and more focused. For example, the 4/7/8 method.
2. Everyone’s favorite grounding method! Grounding helps us remember where we are, what we’re doing, and that we are in the present. And hopefully, it’ll remind you to stay in big space for a little while.
3. Before you start work (or even during, just make sure it’s at a time where you can take a step away!) try and visualize your little self as another person, mentally. Talk to them. Explain to them that you love them, and that you’ll be back for them- but you just can’t be with them right now. Right now, you have to go to work, and do boring adult things. But that’ll make being together that much sweeter! Feel free to plan out with your little self what you plan on doing after you get home- but don’t let them take the wheel completely.
4. I don’t really like this one, but put on a mask. You know how big you would act better than anyone. Replicate that. Imitate how you normally function, and then keep at it until you eventually fall into the groove of being big. Doing so is hard and doing this a lot can be damaging, so please try to cut yourself some slack and when you can, find time to give yourself a break.
Lastly, remember that you’re healing. This is a natural part of that process, and being regressed is nothing to be ashamed of. However, if you find that regression is seriously impacting the way you function and interact with people in your day-to-day life, or that you are unable to be big or find yourself ‘locked’ in a regression headspace, PLEASE seek help. A therapist, a trusted adult, someone who you can reach out to for guidance. Sometimes situations like these need more attention than a sibling can give you.
With that being said, other siblings (and regressors) are welcome to offer their two cents. I hope this helps someone out there. 💕
