How to become emotionally strong

By ANEESA MOIDOO, PSYCHOLOGIST

I try not to express my emotions to anyone, particularly close family members. But I am susceptible at times, which I despise about myself. Could you help me in not repeating that mistake? I want to be strong all of the time.

Appreciate that you are aware of your feelings. Feelings as such are not negative. Evry emotions has its roles. Regulating the emotions is the key. So feeling vulnerable infront of the people you feel safe helps you make stronger because as human we need connection .

It is not bad but healthy when you feel strong enough to let yourself weak with your close ones. Besides, there are ways where you can be emotionally strong like: Understanding and articulating your emotions. Giving a name to your feelings can have a calming effect, diminishing their intensity.

Whether it’s sadness, anxiety, anger, or fear, a simple acknowledgment to yourself can be a powerful first step. By recognizing you lay the groundwork for effectively managing and expressing these feelings in a healthy manner.

Acceptance is a crucial step in fostering a balanced emotional life. Embrace the reality that experiencing both positive and negative emotions is a natural part of the human experience. Grant yourself permission to feel without judgment, cultivating a more compassionate approach to your emotional well-being.

Expressing your emotions in constructive ways is essential for maintaining mental health. Share your feelings with trusted individuals, engage in activities that bring you joy, or utilize outlets like journaling and exercise. These actions allow you to channel your emotions into positive avenues, preventing them from being bottled up or expressed in harmful ways.

Communication plays a pivotal role in emotional well-being. Opening up to someone you trust about your feelings creates a support system. It not only strengthens your connections with others but also provides an outlet for emotional expression, contributing to a more resilient mindset.

Setting boundaries is a form of self-care in managing negative emotions. If certain situations or individuals consistently trigger emotional distress, establishing and enforcing limits becomes crucial. This empowers you to protect your well-being and navigate challenging circumstances more effectively.

Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your routine fosters emotional resilience. Practices such as meditation and deep breathing exercises promote present-moment awareness, helping you manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm amidst life’s challenges.

Learning from your emotions involves reflection and self-awareness. By understanding the underlying causes of your feelings, you pave the way for personal growth. This introspective process allows you to develop strategies for handling similar situations in the future, contributing to emotional maturity.

Seeking professional help is a proactive step toward maintaining emotional well-being. If managing emotions becomes overwhelming, a mental health professional can offer tailored support, coping strategies, and a safe space for deeper exploration. This decision reflects strength and a commitment to prioritizing your mental and emotional health.

(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Daily Tribune)