Every person will experience emotions; they are a part of being a human. Anger, sadness, joy, and shame are all common feelings that play an important role in daily life. When people have a hard time expressing or accepting these feelings, they may be struggling with suppressed emotions. Sometimes suppressed emotions are part of the bigger picture, which could include substance use or mood disorders. Finding mental health treatment in Georgetown, Texas can be critical to relieve these built-up emotions and begin living a healthier life.
If you or a loved one struggles with suppressed emotions and are ready to take steps to find mental health treatment, The Arbor is here to help. Our professional, compassionate team can help you understand the root of your feelings and how to manage your emotions healthily. Call 844.413.2690 today to discover if we are a good fit for you and develop your treatment plan.
What Are Suppressed Emotions?
It’s no secret that people can suppress emotions. Sometimes, individuals may consciously or unconsciously choose to avoid experiencing certain emotions because they believe they are unable to handle them. In doing so, they push these emotions deep down within themselves. However, it’s important to recognize that suppressing emotions is not a healthy coping mechanism. In fact, it can have negative consequences for both mental and physical well-being.
When people suppress their emotions, they may find themselves feeling numb or disconnected from others. They might struggle to express themselves effectively as if their emotions are totally inaccessible. This can lead to a buildup of anxiety, irritability, or moodiness, as the suppressed emotions continue to exert their influence. It may even create a constant state of fight-or-flight response, where individuals are always on edge.
Moreover, suppressing emotions can manifest in physical symptoms like frequent headaches or stomach aches. These physical manifestations serve as reminders that the mind and body are intricately connected. When emotional distress is not addressed, it can take a toll on our overall health.
Who Suppresses Emotions?
Anyone can suppress emotions, but certain groups of people may be more prone to doing so. For instance, individuals who have gone through traumatic experiences often find themselves grappling with suppressed emotions. This suppression arises from a sense of needing to safeguard their vulnerability by concealing their true feelings.
Additionally, other groups that may be more inclined to suppress emotions include:
- Individuals with anxiety disorders
- Those battling depression
- Women
- Children
- LGBTQ individuals
The complex interplay of personal experiences, societal expectations, and individual coping mechanisms contributes to the diverse ways in which different groups navigate and manage their emotions.
What Causes Suppressed Emotions?
There are various reasons why individuals may choose to tamp down their emotions. One significant factor is self-protection, as some people believe that by not acknowledging their emotions, they can shield themselves from potential hurt or pain.
Additionally, individuals may suppress their emotions due to societal expectations. They might feel pressured to conform to certain norms and believe that expressing certain emotions is not acceptable or that their feelings are considered invalid. Consequently, they opt to bottle up their emotions, keeping them hidden and unexpressed.
It’s worth noting that this tendency to suppress emotions can often be traced back to early childhood experiences. For instance, if a child is constantly instructed to “be good” or “stop crying,” they may internalize the message and learn to suppress their emotions as they grow older.
By understanding the underlying reasons behind emotional suppression, we can begin to explore healthier ways of processing and expressing our emotions, fostering emotional well-being and authenticity in our lives.
How Are Suppressed Emotions Treated?
If you’re struggling with this condition, there is hope. There are many effective treatments available that can help you learn to cope with and express your feelings.
One of the most common treatments for suppressed emotions is talk therapy. This type of therapy can help you understand your emotions and why you’re suppressing them. It can also teach you healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with your emotions.
Other treatments may include:
- Medication
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Exposure therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
The sooner you get treatment, the better. These turbulent emotions can lead to serious mental and physical health problems. But, with treatment, you can learn to cope with your emotions healthily.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment at The Arbor
The Arbor specializes in treating clients with dual diagnoses. This treatment is effective for our clients who have both a mental health disorder and a substance abuse problem. We believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms.
If you’re struggling with suppressed emotions and addiction, we can help. Our team of expert clinicians will create a treatment plan specifically for you. We’ll help you understand and healthily cope with your emotions. Contact us today by calling 844.413.2690 to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment program.