Hi Crawford,

First of all, your emotions are ALWAYS VALID.  Never let anyone tell you otherwise.  Negative emotions and positive emotions are always valid.  Communicating with people is very important, even if you do not think they will like the truth.  Make sure you keep people in your life that appreciate honesty and are willing to work through any conflicts you have with them and vice versa.  If the people in your life are not upholding communication and empathy, find new people.

All emotions need outlets and healthy methods for expression.  What are you using to help you express yourself and work through your own feelings/issues?  Writing, drawing, coloring, playing a musical instrument or sport, etc. can all be helpful.

You are not responsible for other people’s emotions.  However, you are responsible for your actions.  Think before you say/act and how it will affect both you and others involved.  Empathy is a two-way street.

Also, though this is a great community of support, please remember that users, such as myself, and this site are not intended to provide and do not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. Nothing here is designed to replace medical or psychiatric treatment.

Sincerely,

Melinda