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How do you cope with having emotions when you live in a culture that believes they should be hidden ?

12 Answers
Last Updated: 07/06/2020 at 7:08pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Jill Kapil, PsyD

Psychologist

I have over 9 years of clinical experience, specialize in anxiety, and am passionate about my work. My approach is collaborative, empathic, supportive, and goal-oriented.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
January 9th, 2015 1:15am
Find and connect with people from cultures where emotional expression is welcomed and tolerated. Above all, whatever your culture of origin and its rules: be true to yourself. We don't all perfectly represent the culture we come from, and that's okay.
Honey
April 12th, 2015 6:36am
If you find it difficult to share your feelings with others, I recommend a journal. It can help you open up and release some pent up frustration. I also believe that a trusted friend or family member would listen no matter what. If you are having trouble keeping your emotions quiet, you might benefit from talking with a Listener too
heavenlySun21
April 25th, 2015 6:07am
write in a journal! exercise! it rebalances the chemicals in your brain. much like antidepressants!!
Anonymous
May 20th, 2015 6:06am
Write out all of your feelings on a blog, share your thoughts and feelings with close friends that you trust, etc.
LiLee
May 27th, 2015 4:14pm
I believe that even though you live in a oppressive culture, you have to impose what do you want to yourself. Some people don´t mind of hiding their emotions, for them it´s part of the culture and they feel ok with that. But if you want to express your emotions, don´t stop yourself of doing it. Go for therapy, look after your happiness and welfare.
PoliteOcean
September 7th, 2015 3:52am
That can be very difficult but you have to do what is best for you. Perhaps seeking a listening ear from a trusted friend or person can help. You can always go to places online that can help too, Such as 7cups of tea! There are plenty of listeners who are willing to listen. If you need something more, there are also places and other things online such as psychologist. You can always refer to online resources for help if you feel you cannot physically go seek help in person.
Anonymous
June 14th, 2016 12:16pm
If you live in a culture where emotions should be hidden. You need to separate yourself from said people. You must be in the world but never of the world.
Anonymous
September 13th, 2016 6:18pm
Everyone has emotions, and it is normal to express you emotions. Keeping your emotions concealed and hidden can be dangerous, it can lead to anxiety and depression.
Anonymous
November 14th, 2017 7:59pm
Knowing that you aren't alone and that many others likely feel the same way. There is strength in numbers, and with large enough support you can work towards and eventually achieve change.
billysear
February 4th, 2019 7:18pm
I find that there is a lot of pressure as a man to keep my emotions to myself but I find that opening up to others promotes an environment that allows for the expression of emotions. Talking to others not only helps you, but gives them the confidence to talk to you if they need it - creating a new culture that promotes the expression of emotion instead of one of suppression. It is an empowering experience and helps create stronger bonds between friends. This is the main way that I cope with having emotions in a culture that doesn't support it.
whenlifegivesy0ulem0ns
April 14th, 2020 2:01pm
Write down how you feel on paper or even your phone. This can help understanding your emotions better and makes you reflect on them. Talk to people you can trust and tell them how you are feeling. Sometimes talking to someone feels nice and makes you understand you are not alone. Take some time for yourself to let it all out. Keeping your emotions bottled I can be harmful sometimes. It's good to let it our once in a while. Focus on. Your hobbies and keep yourself busy but don't work too herd. Try to talk to your family about how this is affecting you.
Anonymous
July 6th, 2020 7:08pm
I cope by talking to friends and engaging in self care. I am lucky to be surrounded by supportive friends and family, but I love spending time on my own, exercising, cooking and baking, and watching my favorite shows. I can assess my needs at the moment and based off of that I can better understand what I need. From there, I either ask the help of my friends and family, which can be hard sometimes because I don't want to burden them, but then I think if roles were reversed I would be more than happy to help them as well.