Bottled Up Emotions: Why Reaching Out to Friends & Family Is a Priceless Gift to Them & You Relationships

Is it hard to ask for help and to rely on people? Do you worry about being a burden? Do you keep a brave face to the world but suffer silently? Research suggests that “bottling emotions” causes an array of problems. It alienates people, causes conflicts, increases the risk of mental illness, sexual problems, drug and alcohol issues, raises the risk of death from heart disease and cancer, and can be related to many other health conditions.

Friends and family often report helplessness, frustration and alienation when they see undisclosed issues in loved ones. Often, tension builds up in the relationships. This then makes the struggling person feel unsupported, alone and angry. A vicious cycle ensues.

Opening up to loved ones about your worries and vulnerabilities shows them that you trust them and value them. Accepting help can make them feel less helpless. It's the best gift you can give to yourself and those you love. Also, talking about issues, even if no solution has been found yet, can feel like a burden lifted and halved.

Sometimes, it's helpful to hear different perspectives on the problems. Reach out and be honest to yourself and with others. It's a priceless gift that you can give to yourself a loved ones.