From a psychoanalytic perspective, the relationship between health and illness defies simplistic notions. Instead, it invites us to explore the internal dynamics that influence our overall well-being. Our psyche develops coping mechanisms and defenses from an early age to deal with internal tensions. While initially helpful, these mechanisms can contribute to psychological or somatic illnesses over time, revealing a paradox of self-protection turning into suffering.
For example, a person experiences childhood trauma and develops a coping mechanism of emotional detachment to protect themselves from painful emotions. While this defense mechanism helps them cope during their formative years, it can later lead to difficulties in forming deep and meaningful relationships, resulting in emotional distress and loneliness. The very self-protection mechanism that served them initially becomes a source of suffering in their adult life.
Psychoanalysis teaches us that illness can symbolically manifest unconscious conflicts, offering a silent language through which our psyche communicates what is challenging to confront consciously. As the saying goes, "the body speaks what the soul keeps silent." A person experiences recurring stomachaches before social gatherings without any apparent physical cause. Through analysis, they uncover that these "sick" symptoms symbolically manifest their unconscious fear of social judgment and rejection. These somatic symptoms provide an opportunity to understand underlying processes that influence our health, leading to transformative growth.
Sigmund Freud, interested in explaining things through ancient myths, introduces us to the contrasting forces of Eros and Thanatos, the life and death instincts. Following his explanation, health emerges from a delicate balance between these instincts, with Eros driving well-being and fulfillment, and Thanatos propelling suffering and the annihilation of being. While health reigns, Eros sustains us, flourishing and embracing life. However, when Thanatos gains prominence, overwhelming destructive impulses can generate internal conflicts and illnesses, and even suicide.
Interestingly, the dichotomy between health and illness sometimes reveals a unique perspective. We realize that the pursuit of a healthy life requires a great amount of constant energy to face challenges: marriage, work, social life, career, following our dreams, and achieving our goals, making it appear arduous in comparison to the perceived comfort of illness. On the other hand, being sick may seem simpler and even easier than being healthy, as illness can offer an “unexpected” refuge and an excuse from life's demands, and we receive attention and care that we find challenging to receive otherwise. This incongruity brings to light the unconscious benefits that illness may provide.
By finding a harmonious balance between life and death instincts, we cultivate holistic well-being and enrich our human experience. This journey of exploration and integration leads us to a profound understanding of ourselves and the intricate interplay of health and illness in our lives. We cannot forget, however, human destiny is written. Thanatos will prevail in the end due to our human characteristics: we are mortal beings.
In conclusion, while psychoanalysis theory provides valuable insights into the interplay between health and illness, it's essential to recognize that not all sickness can be solely attributed to our unconscious conflicts or the contrasting forces of Thanatos and Eros. Biological factors also play a significant role in determining our health and susceptibility to illness. Our well-being is a complex interplay of psychological (conscious and unconscious), social, and biological factors, and understanding this holistic perspective can lead to a more comprehensive approach to health and healing. If you want to walk the pathway of self-discovery, you need to know that it involves navigating the paradoxes of health and illness, among others. Understanding our defence mechanisms and confronting internal conflicts allow us to embrace the complexities that shape our existence.
Have a good journey.
Thank for reading
Evelyn
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