Let it Go !

“Don’t keep all your feelings sheltered – express them. Don’t ever let life shut you up.” - Dr Steve Maraboli

From video calls to text messages, the social life of the so-called "social beings" exist in pocket-sized screens. Technology has opened up the world to us but at the same time it has locked us up within ourselves. The emotional quotient of the modern generation is lost somewhere between trending hashtags and emoji. Teenagers go through a lot of changes – physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. The stress of going through puberty is more than enough and on top of that, there is the additional stress of trying to fit in, adulting, trying to do well at school and so on. Amidst all this, the only outlet that they find is through these meaningless interactions. And as they grow up, this wall that exists between the world and their feelings becomes bigger and bigger.

Most people who suppress their emotions try to find an unhealthy outlet to fill this gap. These people tend to fall into depression or harbor suicidal thoughts or cause self-harm. Hence, it is important to understand that emotions need to be expressed. The society usually looks at people who express emotions or have emotional problems as “wimps” or “feminine”. The patriarchal society thinks that emotions are only for a certain gender. That is certainly not the case and emotional expression is vital for all humans.

Here are some ways you can healthily express your emotions:

1. Accept your emotions. You need to understand that there are no “bad” emotions. Take a deep breath and communicate with yourself. Be honest and let your emotions free.

2. Channel your emotions. When you suppress your emotions, you are channeling them in the wrong direction towards instability and self-harm. When you direct it towards something meaningful, for instance, writing or drawing, they can be used positively. Moreover, this also helps us release these emotions.

3. Seek help. It is also important to understand that seeking help is never wrong. In our society, therapy and mental health counselling is seen as something only for people with mental health issues. People need to understand that anyone can take therapy to help themselves. You should always consider therapy if you need help stabilizing your emotions.

4. Talk to others. Find comfort in friends or family. Never think that you are alone and you have to brave against the world on your own. We social beings cannot survive without interacting with others. Open up to others and let them open up to you. It can be therapeutic for both parties.

No good can come from holding your emotions inside you, to yourself. As Victoria Klein said, emotions are what makes us human, denying them only makes us beasts.

Be Free, Let Go

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