When we are in a state of posttraumatic anxiety, depression distress, the sound of laughter, happiness, or pleasure can feel offensive. Trauma can steal our happiness and threaten our joy. When we are grieving loss, the pleasantries of friends and loved ones who want to make us laugh, smile or celebrate can feel irritating, infuriating, and sometimes painful. In an attempt to feel safe, we avoid, repel, and reject people, acts, and events that might bring us happiness for fear of losing them again.