In this episode we explore why we view some emotions as negative. It is natural to categorise our feelings as good or bad; wrong or right. The negative ones we experience feel unpleasant and so we have a tendency to push them away.

We consider the importance of facing these emotions and starting to see them as unpleasant rather than bad or negative. All our feelings are data or information about our current state, so it can be helpful to develop a curiosity about them and what they are telling us about ourselves. We emphasise the need to manage difficult emotions rather than suppressing them, highlighting the impact of avoidance on mental health.

Takeaways:

• When faced with unpleasant emotions, we often seek distractions.
• Substance abuse and busyness can be unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Avoiding difficult emotions can lead to negative consequences.
• It's important to face and manage our emotions directly.
• Suppressing feelings can result in them resurfacing later.
• Healthy emotional management is crucial for mental well-being.
• Understanding our emotional responses can lead to better coping strategies.
• Emotional tolerance is a skill that can be developed.
• Facing emotions can lead to personal growth and resilience.
• Support systems can aid in managing difficult feelings.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

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