Feelings help us to identify our needs. For example, the feeling of fear began as a way to alert us to threats of danger to our survival. Feeling afraid might literally have been the difference between life and death for our early ancestors. Acknowledging that feelings have use, even when we don’t necessarily enjoy those feelings, can help you manage them. [5] X Research source
It’s possible to feel more than one emotion at once. Try to acknowledge any and all feelings that you’re experiencing. [12] X Research source hhttp://timhillpsychotherapy. com/feeling-multiple-emotions/
Sometimes, this is enough to help you deal with your feelings. It takes a lot of mental effort to ignore a feeling or avoid and suppress it. In fact, doing so can make the feeling stronger and last longer. [15] X Research source Accepting and not fearing your feelings, frees your mind to deal with the situation at hand that is causing your feelings.
The more honest you are, the better your chances of lessening the severity of your feelings. [16] X Research source This gives you distance from your thoughts and allows you to take a more objective look at the situation.
It’s easier to spot flaws in your thinking when all the thoughts are physically written for you to read and see. [19] X Research source hhttps://psychcentral. com/blog/4-journaling-exercises-to-help-you-manage-your-emotions
If you’re not comfortable writing, consider recording your thoughts on a voice recorder app (speak up to ten minutes at a time). Listen to your recording once you are done speaking. As you listen, notice any unhelpful thinking. Repeat the process up to three times.
It’s best to keep your writing somewhere no one else will find it. Knowing your thoughts will be private will help you be more honest with yourself. [20] X Research source
You can use this therapist locator to help you find a trained professional in your area. You can also ask your doctor for a referral. It’s a common misconception that you have to have huge or unmanageable problems to see a therapist. In fact, a therapist can help you identify the unhelpful ways of thinking and behaving in your everyday life and learn better ways to live an emotionally stable and fulfilling life.
