Emotions



To Have Troubling Emotions is Human

There are many reasons why a person might seek counseling or psychotherapy. Common terms such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, “manic-depressive” or “bi-polar” disorder are familiar to most people, even though there is ongoing confusion among both professionals and non-professional about just what these terms mean. . Still, most people have at least some idea what “depressed”, “anxious” and even “paranoid” feel like to them; it doesn’t take a graduate degree to be thrown by these feelings and states of mind, and sometimes knowing too much even gets in the way of being in touch with ones feelings and the connection between feelings and actions! Regardless, though, nearly everyone finds themselves, sooner or later, in the position of needing someone to talk to, to help them get through an unpleasant and even damaging event or time of life.

Some people are more comfortable than others with expressing their emotions, and even admitting that their emotions, thoughts and behaviors are a problem – to themselves or to others. There is no doubt, though, that throughout human history, people have sought out others, often in special positions such as priests, shaman, medicine-men or –women, and sometimes the good old family doctor. Kings and generals have had trusted advisors. Myths and legends, great literature, plays and films have all made use of the human need for trusted confidante – often someone who was unwilling or unable to be true to that trust.

There are many reasons why help for emotional difficulties has become both easier and more difficult to come by. The majority of communities have mental health facilities, but this is certainly not true for all. Some people are uncomfortable going to their physician or clergy person because, perhaps, they are afraid of being judged, ashamed that there is some moral failing in their situation. Sometimes the community is too small and it becomes difficult for personal difficulties to remain personal. Sometimes the doctor or clergy person is not well-trained or comfortable with dealing with the most personal details of someone’s life.

More than ever, in the 20th century, the special roles of the psychiatrist, psychologist and other specialized mental health counselors have taken shape, and continue to take shape. Today, despite the continued difficulty many people have in confronting and seeking help for the most human of difficulties, seeking treatment for emotional difficulties, whether via talk therapy, medication or both, is more common than ever. If done wisely, and with the help of capable professionals, all that can happen is that one can deal better with and/or reduce suffering, and make choices that will improve the quality of life. There is no shame in having the emotions that make one human, in being less than perfectly capable of skating through life without physical or emotion difficulties. Perhaps it would only be a shame to continue suffering when life can be better, or to continue with habits and behaviors that hurt oneself and those with whom one has contact. We should be both smart enough and kind enough to ourselves to aim higher, to embrace who we are, the bumps and the beauty, and put them to use in making life as rich and good as it can be.