The Mood RingWords our grandmothers didn’t have
Emotional suppression
Pushing feelings down so you can keep going.
What it means
Emotional suppression is holding back or hiding what you feel. It can get you through a hard moment, but research shows hiding a feeling doesn’t make it go away. It can actually raise stress in your body.
Many of us learned it early, because showing feelings wasn’t safe, wasn’t allowed or wasn’t “strong.”
What it can look like
- A tight jaw, raised shoulders or a heavy chest
- Laughing things off
- Crying “out of nowhere” later
- Feeling far away from your own emotions
One thing to try
Name it to tame it. Say the feeling in one or two words: “I feel hurt.” Studies show that simply naming a feeling can calm the brain’s alarm system.
Where the term comes from
Psychologist Dr. James Gross’s research on emotion regulation, and Dr. Matthew Lieberman’s work on “affect labeling,” shaped what we know here.
Want to check in with yourself right now? Try the 30-second mood check-in.
Related words
This is educational, not a diagnosis or therapy. If you’re struggling, find support here. In crisis in the U.S., call or text 988.
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