As of recently, it’s much easier for people to bottle up their emotions. With the emergence of technology, more things can potentially cause others to continue to keep their emotions to themselves.
A prime example of this problem is the dependence on social media in our society. Seeing the content of others’ lives that seem to be perfect can easily uncover new insecurities. Social media sets unrealistic expectations for those who consume it regularly, making viewers feel as if they are less than because they don’t meet these standards.
Over time, this problem can make people feel like their feelings are not valid. Self-depreciation is not only a physical problem but a mental one as well.
This is a problem with teens specifically. However, the age at which children get internet access gets lower and lower by the day. These ideologies must not be passed onto them because they will tremendously affect them later on in life.
The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health said, “Social media use is associated with harm to mental health, with adolescents exposed to unrealistic and often harmful portrayals of peers’ lives, which can contribute to depression, anxiety, and body dissatisfaction.”
It is important for those who feel unheard to have somewhere they can go to express themselves and their feelings. Another reason emotions are bottled is because they feel like they can’t fully be themselves or they do not belong. Giving people that safe space they need can help them feel more comfortable in letting those emotions go.
The Child Mind Institute said, “When teenagers feel safe and supported, they are more likely to express their emotions in a healthy way, which can improve their mental well-being and resilience.”
Having trustworthy people around you will make you more comfortable with expressing your feelings. Knowing that you are supported and with someone who will not judge you is key to having the courage to ask for help.
Communicating your feelings to individuals you feel will help you is necessary for keeping your mental health stable. Learning the right way to do so is necessary in your teenage years because it will carry on for personal and professional use later in life. New opportunities are created every day to help those who need someone to talk to and should continue to be taken advantage of by the community.
