From Overwhelmed to Understood: The Power of Naming Emotions
"One can be the master of what one does, but never of what one feels." – Gustave Flaubert
Emotions are part of being human. While we can’t always control what we feel, we can choose how we acknowledge and respond to those feelings. A cancer diagnosis can bring up new, strong, or complex emotions. Ignoring them can make them feel even more overwhelming while talking about and processing them can make them feel lighter. Your emotions may need a “chance to breathe”—by noticing them, you give yourself the chance to better understand and support your own well-being.
Naming Your Feelings
Sometimes, putting a name to what you're feeling can help you process it. Tools like an emotion wheel can remind you of the many emotions humans experience. Instead of saying, I feel sad, you might recognize that you’re feeling vulnerable. Instead of being fearful, maybe you’re overwhelmed. The more specific you are, the more power you gain in understanding and working through your emotions.
When to Reach Out for Support
If emotions start affecting your daily life—making it hard to care for yourself, connect with others, or get through the day—you don’t have to manage them alone. Talking with a mental health therapist or nurse can help. If these feelings persist for a few weeks, consider reaching out to your care team or an Iris mental health therapist for guidance and support.
Ways to Notice and Accept Emotions
Let feelings be, rather than judging or pushing them away. You are not your emotions—you are simply experiencing them. Like waves, they come and go.
Try describing your emotions like a reporter. For one day, practice naming your feelings without judgment. How does it feel to acknowledge them in this way?
Picture your emotions like birds in a tree. Some are loud, some are quiet, but none of them stay forever. Watching them come and go can be a helpful way to observe your feelings with curiosity rather than fear.
You’re Not Alone
Your emotions are valid and noticing them is an important step toward caring for yourself. If you're struggling with overwhelming feelings, Iris mental health therapists are here to support you.
This article meets Iris standards for medical accuracy. It has been fact-checked by the Iris Clinical Editorial Board, our team of oncology experts who ensure that the content is evidence based and up to date. The Iris Clinical Editorial Board includes board-certified oncologists and pharmacists, psychologists, advanced practice providers, licensed clinical social workers, oncology-certified nurses, and dietitians.
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