The Importance of Talking About Your Feelings

Many of us grow up learning to keep our feelings hidden. We’re told to “be strong”, “don’t cry”, or “just get on with it”. While these messages may have been well-meaning, they often leave us believing that our emotions are something to suppress rather than share. However, one of the most healing things we can do is to talk about our feelings openly.

Why Talking Matters
Feelings are part of being who we are. They are signals, like the body’s way of letting us know what’s happening inside. When we don’t express emotions, they don’t simply disappear. Instead, they often show up in other ways—through stress, tension in the body, difficulty sleeping, or even withdrawing from the people we love.

Talking about your feelings allows them space to breathe. It’s a way of acknowledging, “This is what I’m carrying right now.” When we put our emotions into words, they often feel less overwhelming. It’s like turning on a light in a dark room—the shadows don’t feel quite so frightening once they’re named.

Breaking the Silence
Sometimes, people avoid talking about their feelings because they fear being judged, dismissed, or misunderstood. Counselling creates a space where those fears are set aside. Your counsellor won’t tell you that your emotions are “too much” or “not valid”. Instead, they’ll listen carefully, helping you explore what you feel and why it matters.

But even outside of counselling, opening up to trusted friends, family members, or support groups can be powerful. Sharing doesn’t mean you have to have the perfect words. Simply saying, “I’m feeling overwhelmed” or “I don’t quite know what’s wrong, but I’m struggling,” can start the process.

The Healing Power of Being Heard
When someone listens to us with compassion, something shifts. We feel less alone, less weighed down. This is because we are wired for connection. Being heard validates our experience, reminding us that what we feel is real and that we matter.

Talking also helps us process experiences. Emotions that once felt tangled and confusing can become clearer when spoken aloud. Over time, this process leads to better understanding of ourselves, improved emotional regulation, and stronger resilience.

Common Myths About Talking
- “It’s a sign of weakness.” In truth, sharing feelings takes courage. It shows strength to be vulnerable.
- “I’ll be a burden.” Most people feel honoured when someone trusts them enough to openly share. And counsellors are trained specifically to hold space for your feelings without judgement.
- “It won’t change anything.” Talking might not change the situation, but it changes how you carry it. Emotions become lighter when shared.

Starting Small
If opening up feels daunting, start small. You could write your feelings down first or share just one part of what you’re experiencing. Over time, you may feel more comfortable exploring deeper emotions.

Final Thought
Talking about your feelings is not about being dramatic or seeking attention—it’s about caring for your wellbeing. Every time you share openly, you give yourself the gift of release, clarity, and connection. And often, that’s where true healing begins.