Healing Emotional Pain

 How can we begin to heal when we cannot make sense of the pain? “Why did this happen to me” is the most common question individuals ask in an attempt to fully understand the source of their emotional pain. While individuals may never make sense of their pain, acknowledging the pain, and validating the myriad of emotions and feelings that come with it is the first step to the healing process.

Emotional pain, whether stemming from grief, betrayal, trauma, or unmet needs, is a deeply personal experience. The most challenging part of emotional pain is naming and understanding it. It requires us to be vulnerable, and reflective, and sometimes revisit our emotional wounds.

When emotional pain doesn’t make sense, one may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms to numb or suppress the pain. While these unhealthy coping mechanisms may provide temporary relief, the pain does not disappear. It lingers around and may manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, or a physical ailment.

Navigating emotional pain requires self-compassion, patience, and time. It is important to treat oneself with compassion as many often blame themselves for their pain, harbouring feelings of guilt, shame, and unworthiness. Most believe that they should be stronger or that their pain is “not that bad” compared to others.

Time and patience are necessary in the healing process. Healing can be messy and frustrating as the progress comes in waves- two steps forward, one step back- and the lack of immediate results can be discouraging for many. Recognizing that emotional healing takes time is an important first step.

While you may never make sense of your pain, please know that your pain does not define who you are. Reclaim your power by taking charge of your healing. I AM HERE TO HELP!