Paradox
This is something I don’t understand.
You’re supposed to let yourself feel your emotions and not repress them. But you shouldn’t let yourself feel and distract yourself from dangerous thoughts. What am I meant to do?
The mind is not your authority.
I'm not sure that I've read anywhere ... that it is healthy to not let yourself feel. Feelings are separate from thoughts.
You're meant to follow that inner authority that never leads you wrong. It may take awhile to become familiar with that inner impulse.
I don't always have the energy to explain, but I can link more resources if needed.
@convivialVillage7837
@convivialVillage7837
Understanding and managing emotions can indeed be complex. It's essential to acknowledge and allow yourself to feel your emotions, as repressing them can lead to further issues. However, when dealing with dangerous or harmful thoughts, it's crucial to seek help and support from a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.
In difficult situations, finding a healthy balance between feeling and processing emotions and seeking appropriate support is vital. It's okay to seek help when needed and not go through challenging times alone. Remember, talking to someone who can provide guidance and understanding can be beneficial in handling difficult emotions and thoughts. Prioritizing your well-being is important, and seeking professional help can be a proactive step towards managing any overwhelming feelings.
@convivialVillage7837
Both statements are true. It's difficult to find the balance between feeling your emotions and not letting your emotions totally control you. But one thing I can assure you is that feeling your emotions is a good thing, despite how society frowns upon being emotional. However, when emotions make you feel overly negative, or stuck in unhealthy loops, it may be helpful to use logic and try to convince yourself sometimes emotions can distort the truth of things, and that everything will be okay. Hope this helps!
I'm thinking there is a difference in normal feelings in reaction to life events in people with no mental disorders and "pathologic" feelings in people with mental disorders. If a trivial life adversity creates a paralyzing wave of sadness, we should not accept if as normal even though it feels as real as they do. Same with fear and anger in PTSD, etc.
@convivialVillage7837
I heard a quote recently: "I am allowed to feel, but who I am will not be controlled by how I feel."
I guess in this circumstance, self-harming or destructive behavior ties to "who I am." Letting yourself cry and experience your emotions is natural, but losing control and indulging too far towards this will ultimately be more harmful/