Nobody sees me! – On the Pain of Hysteria
Existential Dynamics and Therapy of Histrionic Disorder
Hysteria is widespread. It can infect whole societies, but also individual persons – children and adults – and can bring on exaggerated reactions or even physical illnesses. Although it may manifest itself somatically, we are actually dealing with an unbearable emotional suffering that is so well hidden that it can hardly be detected from the outside. This is the reason for why hysteria appears ridiculous, which in turn only increases its suffering. The heart of hysterical suffering turns around the fact that persons with hysteria are lost inwardly in their pain and are insufficiently seen by others. This presentation will elaborate on the origins of hysteria and will explain its emergence within normal human development. Different forms of hysteria will be introduced briefly. Following this, treatment guidelines for dealing with hysterical behaviour will be elaborated. Although there is a focus on the suffering and illness of hysteria, this disorder – which frequently leaves us feeling helpless and confused – ultimately can offer interesting and exciting insights into the human psyche.
Date: 15 February, 2018
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Cost: FREE
Location: Block Hall, Neufeld Science Centre, Trinity Western University,
Langely, B.C.