Get Over It

In the past few weeks, it has come to my attention how often I hear this phrase, “Get Over It” and decided to do additional reading on the topic of why this is said to our beloveds.

While going through Seminary and Pastoral Counseling classes, I learned so much about human behavior, mental health and the dynamics of relationships. To listen to a case study for example in class allows us to see the complexity of any given situation of one person and their life. You hear their upbringing, culture and so many variables of both good and negative life experiences. At times, we do not have the whole picture of a person's life, but lucky to see a snapshot. Even with a snapshot view of a situation, it may explain more of why a person exhibits a behavior or an emotional expression.

While reading an excerpt from Psychology Today this topic of why people say "Get Over It" to another person offered reasons why, and helpful tips of support to, another fellow human being.

One of the reasons people say this, according to the article, was forms of projection and a feeling they know when you "should be over it" by a certain time frame. Projection may be due to their own feelings (what's best for them) on the subject matter and may not be able to handle your feelings. Then those who feel some arbitrary time frame when one ought to be over something from a life event, will say it just like that; "you should be over this now."

Either way, this may do more harm than good. The reason is, we do not know if there is PTSD involved, for example, and may require additional help from a professional. The article offers suggestions of compassion, support and empathy.

With empathy remember, this belongs to the person experiencing the feelings and emotions. Sometimes a simple phrase like, how can I be supportive to you in this moment? Also, if you recognize their feelings are too much for you, honor yourself of those feelings without telling them "to get over it".

Compassion toward another person is simply allowing them to find their pathway to healing. Books, articles and support groups are also compassionate suggestions.

I honor you, your healing spiritual path and empowerment.

This is inspired by the linked article from Psychology Today.