A mantra, or short grounding and motivational phrase used in repetition, can be helpful for many in their recovery and growth journeys. However, in the practice of ERP, one should be wary of mantras and rote practice. For one, anything that is repeated with the purpose of calming distress or making the uncomfortable more manageable is counter intuitive to ERP goals. In ERP we are trying to engage in exposure despite the fears. By using a mantra or grounding tool we allow the brain to strengthen its belief that the supposed feared consequence is in fact to be feared. For another, we may develop ritual behaviour and compulsions around engaging in mantras and grounding exercises when we find them helpful, or when we do them as a “rule.” Rote is not ERP. Rote signals something may need to be adapted. Keep ERP free flowing and flexible. Engage in behaviour despite fears, and simply because it’s meaningful to you and the life you want.
