Society often teaches us that gratitude should cancel out emotional pain. “You’re lucky, so you shouldn’t feel depressed,” they say. “You’re loved, so why would you feel unseen?” But feelings don’t follow logic. Emotions are not about fairness—they are about human experience. And sometimes, our minds get caught in loops of negativity that feel impossible to break.
For me, these moments are even more complicated because I notice how much my body and mind are changing. Hormones, menopause, and physical shifts play a role in how I feel—sometimes making me more sensitive, more irritable, or more vulnerable to emotional overwhelm. And while it’s easy to blame these changes, the truth is that being aware of them doesn’t make the feelings any lighter or easier to carry.
I remember one particularly difficult time. I was out of town for work, alone in a hotel, and the weight of my emotions became unbearable. Night after night, I found myself crying in silence, feeling unseen and unheard. There was no one to talk to—no friend or family member I felt I could lean on at that moment. The frustration and loneliness became so intense that I knew I needed support beyond my immediate circle.
That’s when I decided to reach out to a psychologist. I scheduled an online call, hoping for some clarity, for someone to listen without judgment. And it helped. Speaking to a professional allowed me to express the raw, unfiltered emotions I couldn’t share elsewhere. It gave me tools to stabilize my mental and emotional health, and for the first time in days, I felt a sense of calm return.
I want to emphasize this point: seeking professional help for mental health is not a sign of weakness. In the Philippines, there is still a stigma around talking to psychologists or counselors. Many people fear being labeled as “too sensitive” or “problematic.” But just as we would see a doctor for physical pain or illness, it is completely valid to seek guidance for emotional and mental pain. Sometimes, we need a trained professional who can help us untangle our thoughts and feelings—someone objective who can provide perspective when we feel lost in our own minds.
It’s okay to feel what you feel. It’s okay to acknowledge that life can be overwhelming even when we are “blessed.” And it’s okay to seek help. We don’t have to carry our struggles alone. Reaching out to a professional is a courageous act of self-care, a step toward understanding yourself better, and a move toward emotional balance.
If you find yourself overwhelmed, know that you are not alone—and that there is no shame in asking for help. Your feelings are valid, your struggles are important, and your mental health deserves attention just as much as your physical health. Talking to someone trained to listen can provide relief, clarity, and hope.
In moments when life feels heavy, when the tears come at night and the mind refuses to rest, remember this: seeking help doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are human—and you are taking responsibility for your well-being.
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