Maddie Teeter, LMHC, clinical program supervisor, Parkview Behavioral Health Institute, addresses the complicated exercise of observing what we’re really feeling.
Sometimes the hardest part of emotions is not knowing what they are. You just know something feels off. You are experiencing sensations of heaviness, irritation, unease.
Putting words to feelings helps your brain feel less chaotic. Instead of, "Everything is wrong," it can become, "I'm feeling anxious and frustrated." Even naming it a little can reduce intensity.
If you're not sure what you feel, start broad. Ask, "Do I feel more sad, angry, scared or overwhelmed?" Then narrow it down. Notice your body, too. A tight chest, heavy limbs or tension can guide you.
You don't need the perfect word. Even saying, "I feel uncomfortable," is enough. Naming emotions is not about fixing them. It's about understanding them.
Parkview Behavioral Health Institute (PBHI) provides personalized inpatient and outpatient care to those who are struggling with mental health issues. Call the PBHI HelpLine at 260-471-9440 or 1-800-284-8439 to receive an assessment or learn more about our services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
