Expressing emotions in my native language feels impossible - in English it's easier

[Ghostlights]

I never learned to talk about my feelings in my native language. When I was about 14, I started talking to people online, who were in a similar situation - the language used in these forums was English. English is only my third language, but when I try to put my feelings into words, my head switches to English. A couple of days ago, I had a talk with a teacher - it was mostly about school, but she kind of sensed that I'm not feeling really well and asked a couple of questions. I had difficulties putting my feelings into words and couldn't really answer some of the questions. She said that I come across as too rational, which causes me to prioritize other things over my well-being. Might have revealed a bit too much (not about my suicidal thoughts though) - at least she recommended me to go to therapy and offered me a hug. I really needed it, but I refused, because I'm not used to something like that... would've probably started to cry. Really wish I hadn't...

 

[GlassMoon]

That's interesting, for me it also feels easier to express emotions in English, even though I lack some words. I think the English me is slightly detached from my mother language me, which makes it easier.

 

[Topaz111]

I am the same way. I never had anyone with whom I felt safe to talk to about my feelings in my native language. Then later on I started talking to people online in English and they were much more empathetic and accepting so I could develop those skills in that language at least. Also speaking in a non-native language kind of puts some distance between you and your words, at least that's how it feels for many people including me.

 

[squiddedoutt]

I'm not sure what your native language is but to me it seems to be connected to the culture of where the language is from as well. Especially for more collectivist cultures where the individual's feelings are not priority. I assume culture plays into language and language plays into culture over time until we get what we have now.

 

[Ghostlights]

I'm not sure what your native language is but to me it seems to be connected to the culture of where the language is from as well. Especially for more collectivist cultures where the individual's feelings are not priority. I assume culture plays into language and language plays into culture over time until we get what we have now.

My native language is German... but I don't know how or if it differs from other countries how certain topics are viewed...

 

[meddle]

its a known fact. it is easier for people to talk about their emotions and thoughts in a foreign language. i find that its easier to talk aboit such hard stuff in english too