Vulnerability & Sharing

Client:

I don’t really talk about this kind of stuff. Not with anyone. But lately, it’s been building up, and I can’t ignore it anymore.

I get frustrated with myself because I feel like I should just be able to handle things. You know, “man up,” deal with it, move on. But the truth is, I feel… stuck. Sad, anxious, sometimes just empty.

The weird part is that I don’t even know how to describe it to anyone. I try with friends, but I always end up laughing it off or changing the subject. I hate feeling like I’m weak.

And yet, here I am, sitting in front of you, admitting it. And I feel… a little scared, actually. Like maybe I’m crossing some line by showing this side of myself.

I just want to be able to feel things without feeling ashamed of them.

Counsellor (Lyn):

First and foremost, I know this might be difficult to hear, but genuinely - thank you for sharing this. I thank you for sharing because it's not easy to… and I thank you for allowing yourself to seek someone to share this with. I feel like if you have come to a point that you do need to share - it means you really are at your limit and just want a safe space.

Client:

…Yeah. That’s exactly it. I don’t think I would be here if it hadn’t gotten to that point.

I’ve spent so long pushing things down, telling myself it’s not a big deal, that other people have it worse. But it’s like my body’s decided it’s done carrying it all. I’m exhausted, and I don’t even know what I’m exhausted from half the time.

Hearing you say “safe space” actually hits something for me. I don’t think I’ve ever really had one where I didn’t feel like I had to be in control or have the answers. Even right now, part of me is worried I’ll say the wrong thing, or that I won’t explain myself properly.

But another part of me feels… relieved. Like maybe I don’t have to hold it together in here. And that feels unfamiliar, but good.

Counsellor:

Easily enough - I want to say that you do not have to figure everything out in one go. I understand that communicating is very hard in general, and it does take time to really understand ourselves and form those thoughts. Perhaps we can figure it out slowly together, learn what it is that's making you feel troubled. Would you like that?

Client:

Yes… I think I’d like that.