Silenced screams: Living with emotional pain

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We all know physical pain. A cut, a burn, a broken bone – undeniable signals our body sends when something is wrong. But what about the pain that has no visible source? The ache in our souls, the heaviness in our hearts, the constant whisper of something not being right within us?

This is personal pain. It doesn’t show up on X-rays or blood tests. It might take the form of deep sadness, relentless anxiety, unhealed trauma, or the emptiness of feeling lost. There’s a stigma surrounding this kind of pain, a silent expectation that we should “get over it”. But this dismissal only makes the internal wound fester.

Personal pain is not weakness. It’s a signal, just like a fever indicates an infection. Ignoring it or pretending it doesn’t exist won’t make it go away. Coping alone can feel like drowning in an invisible sea.

The good news? There are life rafts. Talking to a trusted person is a powerful first step. If pain runs deep, professional therapy can offer guidance to navigate the hurt and uncover a path to healing. Mindfulness, journaling, even finding simple moments of joy – these acts of self-care help build resilience.

It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and there are ways to find support and begin to heal. Here’s what I want you to remember:

  • It’s okay not to be okay. Coping is hard, and there are going to be bad days. Don’t judge yourself for the moments when you can’t hold it together. Allow yourself to feel whatever you need to feel.
  • Small steps matter. Healing isn’t a straight line, and even tiny gestures of self-care count. That might mean taking a hot shower, going for a short walk, listening to a piece of music that feels soothing, or talking to a trusted friend.
  • Small steps matter. Healing isn’t a straight line, and even tiny gestures of self-care count. That might mean taking a hot shower, going for a short walk, listening to a piece of music that feels soothing, or talking to a trusted friend.

It’s important to remember: pain doesn’t define you. It’s something you’re experiencing, not who you are. And although healing isn’t linear, with the right support, hope flickers. You weren’t meant to fight this battle alone; take a step towards that light. You deserve to feel whole again.

Love is not just for couples; it is for all of us.

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Okay, so it’s Valentine’s Day and everyone’s in “couple mode”. It’s like I’ve walked into a Hallmark movie with no option to change the channel. It’s…a lot. Especially if you’re currently flying solo.

You can absolutely feel a little left out in all the teddy bear frenzy. But honestly? Being single shouldn’t stop you from having a good time and this whole day might be more about the marketing than the “magic” anyway.

Sure, seeing coupley posts everywhere can be a bummer, but that’s when we step back and think realistically. Valentine’s Day, especially these days, is about way more than romance.

So, if you’re feeling that single-on-V-Day slump, shake it off! Let’s make this about celebrating all kinds of love:

Love for ourselves: Because honestly, being kind to yourself is always priority number one. We DESERVE to feel good.


Love for those around us: Friends, family, pets! These are the folks who have our backs no matter what day it is. Forget the hearts and flowers routine, focus on meaningful quality time.


Love by giving back: Volunteering or even small acts of kindness are an awesome way to feel the happy “warm fuzzies” we’re all craving today.

 

Here’s how I turn those ideas into actions:

Forget FOMO, treat yourself right: Pampering in whatever way speaks to you – cozy movie night, gourmet takeout, a long walk in a pretty place…anything that’s all about YOU.

Passion Projects: Got a hobby you put on hold, or a new skill you’re dying to try? Today is the PERFECT excuse to dedicate time to it. That sense of accomplishment? Wayyyy better than chocolates!

The Friend Date: Instead of moping, call up those buddies you always mean to hang out with more. You guys can laugh at cheesy V-Day stuff, or have your own awesome mini-adventures.

Puppy Love: Pets are pure joy machines. If you don’t have one, borrow a friend’s for a cuddle session – they won’t judge if you cry into their fur after watching cheesy rom-coms.

Honest reflection: If a relationship IS something you want, pinpoint what might be standing in the way. Today’s an opportunity to work on YOU, becoming the best version of yourself that ideal partner would fall for.

The ‘Heck Yeah’ Choice: Love being single? That’s fantastic! Remind everyone (and yourself) that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

At the end of the day, whether you’re coupled up or not, feeling loved comes from within. Do things that make your heart happy, connect genuinely with others, and remember – a day on the calendar shouldn’t determine your mood. You got this!