Don't cry.
My tears are a release valve, not a sign of weakness. Telling me not to cry just jams the system.
What it made you think
I am being told that my feelings are not valid or acceptable, and that I should suppress them to make others comfortable.
The True Story
Your emotions are valid, and you deserve to express them without shame.
What is happening in your system?
The limbic system perceives this as a threat, triggering a shutdown response because emotional expression is being suppressed. This can lead to increased anxiety, frustration, and a feeling of being unseen and unheard.
What changes in you...
I become less likely to express my emotions openly and honestly, leading to increased isolation and difficulty in forming genuine connections.
How can I navigate this in the moment?
A few ways to respond when this lands. Take whichever feels right, or none at all.
The Low-Battery Out
"I need to cry. Please give me space."
The Honest Explanation
"When I cry, I'm releasing stress. Asking me to stop makes it worse."
Drawing the Line
"I understand you're trying to help, but I need to feel my feelings. If you can't handle it, please leave."
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