Do you feel happy all the time? Or, do you think you should feel happy all the time? Is your day filled with anger? Does the thought of thinking about emotions make you anxious? Has sadness crept into your life unexpectedly? Are you scared of things in your life? Can you think of some things that bring you joy? Have you ever been hurt or disappointed by someone? Is grief something you have experienced more than you would like?
As a counselor, I believe it is my duty to share that “normal” isn’t an accurate descriptive word for mental health. Emotions – all emotions – have a purpose. Emotions tell the brain and body that a reaction is needed. If you avoid (or suppress) negative emotions – such as anger, fear, hurt, depression, vulnerability, pain, or embarrassment – then you also constrict your ability to experience positive emotions – such as excitement, joy, love, relief, happiness, pride, humor, and calmness. Both positive and negative emotions are processed in the amygdala, which is in the temporal lobe of your brain.
As a counselor, I believe it is my duty to share that “normal” isn’t an accurate descriptive word for mental health. Emotions – all emotions – have a purpose. Emotions tell the brain and body that a reaction is needed. If you avoid (or suppress) negative emotions – such as anger, fear, hurt, depression, vulnerability, pain, or embarrassment – then you also constrict your ability to experience positive emotions – such as excitement, joy, love, relief, happiness, pride, humor, and calmness. Both positive and negative emotions are processed in the amygdala, which is in the temporal lobe of your brain.
| The emotions you feel depend on how you interpret a particular situation. Then, your brain decides which chemicals to release – Serotonin, Dopamine, Glutamate, or Norepinephrine – to help you respond to the situation. Without emotions, you might not react appropriately. Let’s see how this works: You have met a cute guy (or girl) and have plans for a first date. You are excited (positive) and nervous (negative). With the help of your brain, these emotions propel you to look and act your best for that first impression. This process, hopefully, will help you secure a second date! Another example: Spending time with your grandmother brings you such joy (positive), but her health has been failing and she is often in pain. When she dies, you are devastated (negative), even though you know she is free from pain now. Your emotions allow you to both celebrate her life and your memories, as well as grieve (including crying, getting angry, and experiencing shock). After a while, your emotions will regulate so you can function at a manageable level. |  |
Therefore, emotions are not only “normal,” they are also necessary! Feeling is a gift; a gift to experience life – the good and the bad!
Emotions are also temporary! You are not always going to be operating at as stress level of 10 (even though it might feel like it at work some days!). You are also not always going to be ANY emotion.
Emotions are also temporary! You are not always going to be operating at as stress level of 10 (even though it might feel like it at work some days!). You are also not always going to be ANY emotion.
Imagine a “normal” day of accepting your emotions as this:
Take home message: Accept emotions as a healthy part of your daily life. Embrace the positive and negative emotions. Live life to the fullest!
Author
If you are having difficulty managing your emotions (or other personal issues), seek professional help. Bree Winkler LPC is a licensed professional counselor in Atlanta, GA. Bree specializes in helping clients with anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues. Contact Bree today for your FREE phone consultation.
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