PodcastsThe Diary Of A CEO with Steven BartlettMoment 131: Why You Need To Start Embracing ALL Your Emotions: Dr. Julie Smith

Moment 131: Why You Need To Start Embracing ALL Your Emotions: Dr. Julie Smith
The Diary Of A CEO with Steven BartlettThu Oct 12 2023
Society's influence on managing emotions:
- Society presents two narratives for managing emotions: shrugging them off and ignoring them, or fully embracing and wallowing in them.
- Ignoring emotions can lead to subconscious erosion of the brain, while fully embracing them may be overwhelming and hinder daily functioning.
The balance between embracing and ignoring emotions:
- In therapy, it is important to approach emotions carefully, especially for individuals with unsafe coping strategies.
- Gradual exposure to less dangerous or overwhelming emotions is recommended, supported by tools that help manage and navigate these emotions.
- Many people are unaware that they are blocking their emotions, which can manifest in behaviors like overeating or excessive screen time as a means of distraction.
- It is essential to approach these behaviors with curiosity rather than judgment, recognizing that they serve a function of providing temporary comfort or safety.
Body's response to unaddressed stress and emotion:
- The body often reveals signs of unaddressed stress or emotion even when the conscious mind tries to shrug it off.
- Examples include getting sick or experiencing skin problems after high-stress moments.
- Shifts in behavior patterns, such as extreme eating habits, can also indicate underlying unresolved issues.
Men's struggle with expressing emotions:
- Men face societal stigmas around discussing their feelings openly.
- Social media has enabled conversations about mental health that might not happen face-to-face.
- Sharing personal experiences and recommending helpful tools learned through overcoming struggles contributes to reducing stigma.
Seeking support without access to therapy:
- Human contact and connection are crucial for addressing emotional challenges if therapy is inaccessible.
- Finding someone trustworthy to talk to or using creative outlets like writing or art can provide an opportunity for reflection and understanding one's own experiences.
Breaking harmful cycles of blocking behaviors:
- Reflecting on what leads up to negative emotions and exploring vulnerability can be beneficial.
- Examining the immediate responses or behaviors that provide instant relief but keep individuals stuck in a cycle is important.
- Long-term solutions often require sitting with emotions, using skills to navigate them, and resisting the temptation of instant relief.