Recently I attended a conference and heard a psychology student say “if people do not talk about their emotional distresses, then it will manifest as physical illnesses in the body”. Physical illnesses could be in the form of constant headaches, perhaps stomach ulcers and may be even development of chronic illnesses like Diabetes and Depression.
Many times we hold our feelings in due to fear. Fear of criticism or blame, blame that the fault is our own, due to situation we are currently in. Fear of being too exposed which would make us look weak, and feel too vulnerable. No one wants to be looked at with pity because we feel that we are above that. So even though we are emotionally breaking under mountains of distress, we hide behind a plastic smile and always say “I’m ok”. But it is not ok, emotional distress will drive us crazy literally.
Ironically, a little stress is good for us, example, stress of planning a wedding, stress of organizing a party or even stress of babysitting for one evening. This kind of stress just lasts for a time and will be over as soon as the event is passed. It keeps us focused, knowing that we are accountable, and accountability fosters responsibility which builds good character.
However, when stress reaches the point of distress this is when the hazard lights of our emotions come on, signaling to us that we need help.
Talking about our problems with a trusted family member or friend is a very beneficial way to release our emotions and prevent it from reaching breaking point. Some will say they do not have any trusted friend or family member to talk with; well there are still professionals, like a psychologist who will listen to our problems and feelings and advise us of ways to solve or alleviate them. No money to pay a psychologist? Well if you are a spiritual person, you can pray about whatever the problem might be. Talk with the Lord in prayer. He listens and understands and will definitely help.
Let us not let emotional distress take away our joy, we will talk about it today and regain our genuine smile.
