A recent study has ignited a debate within the therapeutic community, suggesting that talking about our emotions may not always be beneficial. Surprisingly, the research proposes that embracing stoicism, symbolized by the traditional “stiff upper lip,” may yield better results in “curing” depression than conventional talking therapies.
As a therapist, this revelation sparked deep contemplation. While the study’s small sample size raises questions about its relevance, the notion that not discussing our emotions could be healthier than opening up about them intrigued me.
The evolving landscape of therapy has come a long way since the days of Freud. Today’s therapists embrace proactive approaches that encompass group work, somatic therapy (exploring emotions held within the body), and innovative techniques like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and emotional freedom technique (EFT), also known as psychological acupressure. The horizon also hints at the integration of psychedelic visioning.
Therapy, like any field, has evolved over the years, from Wilhelm Reich’s exploration of “muscular armor” to Carl Rogers’ person-centered therapy and Fritz Perls’ Gestalt psychology. This adaptability is what makes therapy both compelling and relevant—a dynamic practice that reflects the evolving understanding of human psychology.
Gone are the days of the stoic “stiff upper lip,” which may have once served to encourage individuals to face battles, endure boarding schools, or endure childbirth with minimal pain relief. Today, we recognize the importance of acknowledging our emotions, ranging from sorrow to joy and everything in between. Men can openly discuss their feelings without ridicule, signifying a positive societal shift.
Dr. Gabor Maté, a trauma specialist, warns that suppressing feelings can lead to physical illnesses. He suggests that unexpressed emotions and unresolved traumas can manifest as various physical diseases. This concept aligns with the idea that “bad” things happen when emotions are bottled up.
In movies and television, angry characters are often portrayed as overweight and red-faced, hinting at the physical toll of suppressed emotions.
Many clients experiencing unexplained physical pain have reported relief after therapy. One poignant example involves a man who had tragically lost his wife but couldn’t shed a tear. Chronic styes in his eyes vanished once his tear ducts were unblocked during therapy, allowing his pent-up pain to be released.
Yet, it is essential to recognize that dwelling in childhood pain for prolonged periods may not be conducive to healing. Continuously revisiting our pain without seeking transformation can trap us in a cycle of suffering. Therapy should not merely heal; it should also be transformative, fostering movement, intention, and a positive outlook for the future.
In the ongoing conversation about the merits of emotional expression versus stoicism, the evolving landscape of therapy continues to explore how to best address the complex tapestry of human emotions and psychological well-being.
