Releasing Repressed Emotions: Why We Hide From Our Feelings

Your body remembers what your mind tries to forget. Those unexpected tears during a massage, that inexplicable anger that seems disproportionate to the situation, the physical ailments that medical tests struggle to explain—these are often the language of repressed emotions trying to be heard.

As therapists, we’ve observed how many of us walk through life carrying emotional burdens we don’t even realize exist. We share our personal stories of childhood experiences that shaped us—from the devastating loss of a beloved cousin who was about to be adopted into our family to growing up in a house with lodgers that created a persistent sense of unease.

These early experiences formed patterns that followed us into adulthood, influencing our relationships and behaviors in ways we only recognized decades later. The distinction between suppression and repression is crucial. Suppression happens consciously—like putting a brave face on after an argument because guests are arriving.

Repression occurs when emotions sink so deeply into our unconscious that we forget they exist. Both serve as coping mechanisms, but long-term repression can manifest as physical symptoms, sudden emotional releases, or repetitive patterns that limit our lives.

Acknowledging your emotional landscape doesn’t mean dwelling in past pain or adopting a victim mentality. Rather, it’s about understanding why you respond the way you do and creating space for authentic emotional expression. Whether through therapy, supportive relationships, or self-reflection, the path to emotional freedom begins with recognition. What emotions have you been avoiding? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Connect with us on YouTube, listen wherever you get your podcasts, and reach out—we’re here to help you get real with what’s really going on beneath the surface.

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