How to Stop Intellectualizing Our Feelings so Much and Actually Feel Them

Intellectualization is a defense mechanism or coping strategy that can be useful for getting us through brief challenging moments but can have adverse effects in the long run. Well + Good shares with us how to stop over-intellectualizing and actually heal. Read the full article here.

We Need To Stop Intellectualizing Our Feelings so Much and, You Know, Actually Feel Them

Being overly intellectual in order to cope can be helpful in avoiding feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and depression. Staying too cerebral in the long run, however, can minimize and even deny the important emotional components of the situation.
–Carla Marie Manly, PhD

1. Acknowledge how you feel and notice the physical effects on your body

2. Put the situation in a different context and look for any benefits

3. Give yourself permission to feel and grieve, because emotions are relative