The Psychological Impact of Keeping a Door Closed
Everyone has their moments when the world becomes too overwhelming, and a simple act of closing a door can offer immediate relief. Throughout my life, the act of barricading or keeping a door closed has always been a coping mechanism. As a child, I remember doing this out of fear and a need for safety, while as an adult, the reasons evolved but the behavior remained.
Childhood Spree: Barricading the Bedroom Door
Believe it or not, as a young child, I used to barricade my bedroom door during the daytime hours. I would push a heavy chair against the door handle or find something even heavier to block the entrance. My motive? To keep danger and bad people out. I was a constantly anxious child, and my bedroom felt like a safe haven from the outside world's troubles.
Adult Challenges: Exploring the Relevance of Door Closure
As I grew older, my reasons for closing a door changed. Gone were the days of fear of outside danger. Instead, I found myself in situations where a simple slam of the door allowed me a few moments of peace and solitude. This became particularly evident when I would descend into my basement, that dark space hidden beneath my childhood home. Nostalgia and a sense of security surged within me as I remembered how that space used to feel like a sanctuary during my youth.
Closing Doors for Peace of Mind
When I was younger, my childhood home was bustling with life, with three brothers vying for attention and space. During those chaotic times, closing my bedroom door for more than ten minutes meant carving out a small corner of the world that was mine alone. It wasn't just about physical boundaries; it was a mental space where I could decompress and recharge. Closing the door allowed me to create a sense of psychological safety and privacy, something invaluable during those adolescent years.
Adult Reflections on the Role of Door Closure
As an adult, the act of closing a door has taken on a new meaning. While the specific fears of childhood have dissipated, the need for coping mechanisms remains. Whether it's in my bedroom or through the occasional retreat into a quieter space, closing a door brings a familiar sense of calm. It serves as a reminder of my ability to create a space that is solely my own, even within a busy and chaotic environment.
Connecting Past and Present: A Lifelong Perspective
The habit of closing a door has followed me through life, morphing with my experiences and evolving with time. It's a simple act, but one that has profound implications on mental health and well-being. By understanding and embracing the significance of this behavior, we can better appreciate the importance of personal space and the psychological safety it provides.
Conclusion
From a child barricading my bedroom door to an adult seeking solace in a closed room, the act of closing a door has played a significant role in my journey. It's more than a physical action; it's a reminder of the importance of psychological safety and the value of personal space.