Talk Through Negative Emotions

“We cannot selectively numb emotions, when we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.” — Brené Brown

There is no escaping negative emotions. Each day puts you on a roller coaster of highs and lows. Depending on what is going on in your life, there could be more time spent in those peaks or valleys. We at ETS are huge supporters of mental health. Sometimes to address what you are going through, it is best to talk to someone.

Who you talk to matters. Divulging your deepest thoughts to strangers would be a weird thing to do. It’s been known for a long time that talking out our problems and sharing our negative emotions with someone we trust can help in coping — by reducing stress, strengthening the immune system, and reducing physical and emotional distress¹. Talking things out with a trusted friend or professional helps provide acceptance and perspective.  Individuals who accept, rather than judge, their mental experiences may attain better psychological health². In fact, you can improve your overall wellbeing with just one high-quality conversation a day with a friend³.

Obvious individual proclivities aside, both men and women are equally emotional⁴. Although, there are differences in how they experience and react with emotions⁵. Either way, we all benefit from talking through negative emotions, but don’t overdo it — no one wants to be around someone who is negative all the time. Oversharing negative emotions, termed “sadfishing” online, is associated with anxiety, depression and attention seeking⁶. Make time for yourself and your friends to support your mental health and theirs. Talk through negative emotions and listen to theirs to help keep a positive attitude and full life.

Action: Have one meaningful conversation per day with a friend or professional. Ensure to both talk and listen.

Disclaimer: Some situations can be extremely challenging. It is strongly recommended to seek the help of a licensed professional if you are deeply struggling.

Further Reading:

1. Disclosure of traumas and immune function: Health implications for psychotherapy.
2. The Psychological Health Benefits of Accepting Negative Emotions and Thoughts: Laboratory, Diary, and Longitudinal Evidence
3. Quality Conversation Can Increase Daily Well-Being
4. Little evidence for sex or ovarian hormone influences on affective variability
5. Gender and Emotion Expression: A Developmental Contextual Perspective
6. When we can share everything online, what counts as oversharing?