Emotional Suppression Is Keeping You Sick
In medicine, suppression refers to stopping or reducing the symptoms of a disease or illness. This can be done with medication, surgery, or other treatments. While suppression can be helpful in relieving symptoms, it does not always address the underlying cause of the disease.
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Medical suppression
In psychology, suppression refers to the process of pushing down or trying to ignore unwanted thoughts, feelings, or memories. This can be a coping mechanism in the short term, but in the long term, suppression can actually be harmful to our health.
Here’s how suppression can make us sick:
Increased stress levels: When we suppress our emotions, it can lead to increased stress levels. This is because our body is constantly on guard, trying to keep those emotions from bubbling up to the surface. Chronic stress can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to illness. Opens in a new window www.researchgate.net
Increased stress levels
Physical health problems: Over time, suppressed emotions can manifest themselves in physical health problems such as headaches, stomachaches, and muscle tension. They may also contribute to more serious health problems such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
Mental health problems: Suppressing our emotions can also lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and addiction. When we don’t allow ourselves to feel our emotions, they can build up and eventually overwhelm us.
If you’re struggling with suppression, there are healthy ways to cope with your emotions. Here are a few tips:
Talk to someone you trust: Talking about your feelings can be a great way to release them and gain perspective.
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a helpful way to process them.
Exercise: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood.
Meditation: Meditation can help you to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings and to accept them without judgment.
Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to cope with your emotions on your own, a therapist can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.