Guilt is not an emotion...but it might be controlling you.
Note: Today’s post is written by The Centered Space’s post-doctoral fellow, Erica langer, PsyD
No Guilt Allowed!
Over the last few weeks, I've heard patients, friends and family discuss the war in the Middle East. Regardless of political views, people are feeling sad, fearful, angry.....and guilty.
- Guilt for going out and having fun.
- Guilt about taking a social media break.
- Guilt for feeling joy.
Although everyone has a right to their emotions, guilt has no place here (also guilt is not an emotion!).
Guilt is the (sometimes uncomfortable) awareness that your needs are different from others’ needs. And some of us have been taught that that is a bad thing, or wrong, when it isn’t.
Never feel guilty for paying attention to your needs and taking care of yourself. During these complex times, mental health and self-care are more important than ever.
Self-care looks different for everyone. It may mean giving yourself permission for that social media break, spending time with friends, going out and having fun, or talking to a therapist. Whatever self-care means for you, make it a priority.…but leave the guilt at home.