u/IcePickle12

Anyone able to offer advice or point me towards a specific video/resources? How can I tell if I am processing emotions or just engaging in rumination? Been trying to work on emotional regulation, as it is definitely a skill I lack. For, seemingly, a large part of my life I have repressed my emotions in some way or another. Either through a screen, drugs, or something else to numb out “negative” emotions. I just know that there is crap rumbling under the surface that needs to get out, and I am desperately craving some emotional release. Don’t remember the last time I actually had a good cry. Dr. K’s videos on emotional processing have helped and I have developed a habit of going on long walks with no distractions to think. Also, using the method of noticing how I am feeling (using physical cues) and then naming that emotion.A lot of times these negative emotions will surface on my walks (also other physical but not mentally engaging activities like showering, doing the dishes, etc.) but it doesn’t feel like I’m working through them. It feels like a whole lot of “my problems suck” “why do I have these problems” “(fantasizing about being the underdog)” type of thoughts. It’s the same thoughts over and over again. My assumption is that I’m supposed to feel some sort of release after processing. After my walks I tend to actually feel worse and my mind is just stuck in some loop. To get more specific, I have some health issues that will probably follow me for the rest of my life and it’s been very difficult to deal with and these are what come up on my walks. Thanks!