Learning About Feelings

[Kelly Lee]

One way that I get negative energy stored up that can bring on a hypomanic episode is by stuffing my feelings. I'm a very private person and don't want everyone to know what I am thinking or feeling, AND I was taught to stuff negative feelings as a child, so it's a habit I'm in. About two months ago, I had an episode that made it clear to me that I had been stuffing feelings about things that I wasn't even aware I was stuffing! So I promised myself I would work to become more aware of my feelings and what I was doing with them.

So, two months later, I realize I conveniently forgot to follow up on that and now I want to get on the ball and not let it fall by the wayside again.

What would you read in the Bible, if you were learning about feelings and recognizing them and dealing with them?

 

[rushingwind62]

I think the entire book of Psalms would be good to read. David felt many things throughout this book, the trick is putting yourself in his shoes in order to understand where it is that he is coming from.

It is not good to store things up and never deal with them. I use to do that all time. That all built up within me and ended up leading to my first mental breakdown. You have to learn it is ok to feel emotions and express them. It is more than just ok it is vital that we learn to express ourselves. It helps us in our self esteem and confidence. If you aren't already involved in counseling I would highly recommend it. Lifestyle changes are not easy to accomplish alone. Counseling along with other support systems such as family and friends is very important. Our prayers are with you....and God Bless YOU!!!

 

[Alaskamomma]

I think Jeremiah had a lot of problems with his emotions as clearly he was all over the place. It seems to me he had this on-going conversation with God and that God gave him directions.

I also agree with Rushing that the Psalms also reflect a bipolar life. Up and down. David expresses his sorrow so well.

Do you have a therapist? For me, having one helps a great deal. I have also had a good success with a biploar therapy group. From time to time I still stuff my feelings and thoughts, but for the most part any more, I do not.

I wish you success.

 

[Kelly Lee]

I am not currently seeing a therapist. I had stopped a while back because I reached a point (after several years) where I didn't feel it was doing any good. I have thought about going back but we don't have any therapists in my little town and transportation to the resources I can use is a HUGE issue (I live in the country, so can't do bus or taxi, and gas is, as you know, outrageous) So, no, I'm not seeing a therapist right now.

 

[DoubtingThomas29]

We all need a safe place to vent, but on the internet, you still have to watch what you say. Like it isn't confidential, but I think the internet and having some pen pals, is a good way to talk to people, and share feelings. You could probably talk to a lot of people on the internet. Hang in there, and post when you feel like sharing, that is probably good for you.

 

[wonderwoman]

I really haven't had any real consistent support systems or good experiences with therapy. I'm not opposed to therapy and believe that, with the right therapist, it would most likely do me good. As for a good therapist, it really comes down to money. My insurance is medicare and medicaid so my therapy choices really suck. As for support systems, all i have is my boyfriend who is also bipolar and he's the only one i vent to. I don't really have any friends since many of my old friends have either moved away or our friendships have faded mostly due to my illness. Some of the church people i've tried to find solace in tend to run away when they find out i'm mentally ill. A lot of people just tend to not want to invest in people like me out of fear or something. I never understood why since my illness has never manifested in the form of anger, rage etc.
I've always wanted to try group therapy, but i don't even know where to begin to look for that. I guess this forum here is the closest i've come to group therapy.