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What Is Suppression? covers the paradoxical effects of forcing thoughts away .
Overuse of suppression can lead to "blunted reward responsivity," where you lose the ability to feel positive emotions as well as negative ones . It is also linked to physical stress symptoms like high blood pressure and tension headaches . 2. Suppression vs. Repression
Traditionally, suppression was thought to be universally maladaptive due to the "rebound effect"—the idea that the more you try to ignore a thought (like a "white bear"), the more frequently it returns . However, perspective is shifting:
This is an unconscious defense mechanism where the mind automatically blocks out traumatic memories so you aren't even aware they exist . 3. When Suppression is "Healthy"
According to experts at 7 Cups , suppression works best as a temporary tool when paired with a "return plan" :
How to Regulate Emotions Without Suppressing Them offers research-backed alternatives like cognitive reappraisal .
You know you are upset but choose to ignore it to focus on a task, like staying calm during a presentation .
