| Therapy is the best for this kind of thing. Strongly recommended. I delayed therapy for years, thinking it was for people with "major psych problems" when really, you're just learning how to identify and manage your emotions. While this sounds almost stupidly simple, it's actually extremely hard work that most of us never learn! A good therapist will act like a master coach, helping you through the process, as you learn "how to drive" emotionally. Finding a good therapist is also hard. And there's very little help for you in that process. Here's some advice I got from a trusted psych, which turned out well for me: * Use Psychology Today's Find a Therapist tool: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists * Look for therapists who focus on only a few therapeutic orientations (I like CBT) * Avoid therapists who offer CBT alongside psychodynamic therapy, or family therapy - these are different, largely incompatible modalities You'll probably have to meet with / call a few before you find someone you click with (which is important). Patience is important. The whole process takes time - took me 2 years of weekly work, but it was tremendously helpful. Also, exercise. It doesn't have to be anything special / major, just get outside (preferably) and move your body. A walk around the neighborhood is fine. This has a number of positive psych and physical effects. Be well! |
The exercising point is really important. I've heard that 30 minutes of light cardio per day is equivalent to taking antidepressants.