As a counsellor, I often get the following answers when I inquire about a client's feelings:
"I am fine"
"I am depressed"
"I am anxious"
"I feel I am struggling"
Although the statements above offer some insight into a client's condition, I consider them to be overly general and potentially prone to misinterpretation regarding the individual's true state. According to social work researcher Brene Brown in her book "Atlas of the Heart," our North American culture lacks specific language to accurately describe emotional states impeding our ability to connect. Brown's research in the book reveals 87 distinct emotional experiences and presents a framework for identifying these emotions, thereby improving our self-awareness and relationships with others. By delving deeply into our emotional experiences, we can be more genuine with ourselves and enhance our ability to connect with others, as demonstrated in Susan David's book "Emotional Agility."
When someone says, "I am depressed," it could refer to feelings of sadness, anguish, or grief. Recognizing the exact emotional state can assist in recognizing and categorizing one's true feelings. This self-awareness helps individuals comprehend themselves and normalize their experiences, often leading to a decrease in the intensity and duration of the emotional response. Naming the emotion is the first step to managing it effectively!
Here is a Link to a PDF of the 87https://brenebrown.com/resources/atlas-of-the-heart-list-of-emotions/
Looking for the mentioned books. Below is the Amazon link. Note I do receive a 3-5% commission if you choose to purchase.
Atlas of the heart: mapping meaningful connection and the language of human experience
Brown - Random House Large Print - 2022 https://amzn.to/46V93cs
Emotional agility: get unstuck, embrace change, and thrive in work and life
David - Penguin Life - 2017 https://amzn.to/3yAWu9R
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