Afraid Quote by Alexander Lowen
“Fear is another emotion that is strongly suppressed. We cannot afford to be afraid, and so we don't allow ourselves to sense and feel the fear within us. We lower our brows to deny it, set our jaws to defy it, and smile to deceive ourselves. But inwardly we remain scared to death.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Language of the Body, 1979
Fear is often hidden behind denial, leading to internal terror despite outward bravado.
In simple terms: We hide fear, but it remains inside.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge and process fear directly.
Themes
fear
denial
psychology
authenticity
Mood
introspective
serious
Type
psychological
motivational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- mindfulness practice
- support groups
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
repression
self-awareness
emotional health
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears are you denying?
- How can you safely face hidden anxieties?
A Different Perspective
Denial can temporarily reduce anxiety but worsens long-term wellbeing.
![“Happiness is the consciousness of growth. [...] If my definition has validity, it suggests that most people come to therapy because they sense their growth has been arrested. Certainly many patients look to therapy to reinstitute the growth process. (33)” quote by Alexander Lowen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8db/alexander-lowen-11650_happiness_happiness-is-the-consciousness-of-growth_454752.jpg)
