How women can care for their emotional health by finding someone to talk to

There’s no denying that we all face unique challenges in life. These challenges can sometimes leave us feeling overwhelmed, mentally and emotionally drained. In those moments, it’s easy to feel isolated, as though we have no support system to turn to. Sometimes the people we do have in our lives may not fully understand our struggles or might even make us feel worse, either because they can’t relate to our experience or simply don’t want to.

Despite the challenges in finding people we can trust, as women we can all benefit from someone to share our concerns with from time to time, someone who can offer a different perspective on things. A fresh viewpoint can be incredibly valuable, especially when we feel like we’re stuck in our own thoughts.

Why finding the right person matters

Not everyone in our circle is equipped to offer the type of support we need. Well-meaning friends and family might lack the ability to listen without judgment, or they could unintentionally make us feel more misunderstood. The key to finding someone to talk to is identifying a person or resource that aligns with our needs and values our emotional well-being.

Tips for searching for and vetting someone to talk to

1. Identify your needs: First, clarify what kind of support you’re looking for whether it’s emotional, practical, or mental health-related. Understanding your needs helps in narrowing down who can best provide that support.
2. Check credentials: If you’re seeking professional help, such as from a therapist or counselor, consider ensuring they’re licensed and have positive reviews or recommendations from other clients. Credentials matter, especially when you’re entrusting someone with sensitive aspects of your life.
3. Look for relatability: If you prefer talking to a peer or joining a support group, choose individuals or groups with shared experiences. This increases the likelihood of them relating to and understanding your situation.
4. Trust your intuition: When interacting with potential confidants, trust your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep searching. You should feel safe and comfortable in sharing your thoughts.
5. Start with small interactions: Before diving into deep conversations, ease into conversations to assess whether the person truly listens and provides thoughtful responses.
6. Look for active listening: A good listener is someone who is attentive and responds in a way that shows understanding.  Know that some very supportive people seek to empathize, connect with, and teach others by sharing stories about themselves, and that’s great, be attentive, and seek valuable lessons in all that is shared.

Alternative resources for support

If you’re struggling to find the right person in your immediate circle, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor, for example, offers a safe, confidential space to express your feelings without fear of judgment. Professionals are trained to provide not only empathy but practical strategies to help you navigate tough times. 

In addition to professional resources, online communities, and support groups have become invaluable for many. These spaces allow people to connect with others who might be going through similar struggles, creating a sense of belonging. Some people find comfort in knowing that they’re not alone and that others have faced, and even overcome, challenges similar to theirs.

Many people consider dedicated online forums, chat rooms, and therapy apps to be great alternatives for those who might not feel comfortable opening up to people in their personal lives just yet. These platforms provide a layer of anonymity that some may find comforting.

Tips for finding licensed professionals to speak to

Finding licensed professionals can be challenging if you don’t know where to begin your search, but there are so many options available to you.  Here are a few tips for finding them.

1. Family Doctor: Consider sharing your concerns with your family doctor or maybe just asking about referrals to one who may be able to provide their support.
2. Employee Assistance Program (EAP):  An EAP is a confidential employee benefit program offered by many employers. It provides a range of services to help employees address personal and work-related issues. One benefit EAPs typically offer is confidential counseling sessions with mental health professionals to address stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or other personal concerns.
3. Online directories: Websites like Psychology Today and a list of Provincial Associations on the Canadian Psychological Association website. They allow you to search for therapists in your area based on various criteria, such as your unique concern(s), specialization, insurance coverage, and location.
4. Ask friends and family: Talk to your friends or family members you trust for recommendations. They may know someone who has had a positive experience with a therapist.
5. Check professional associations: Look for mental health professionals who are members of professional associations like the Canadian Psychological Association or the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. This may be a good indicator of their qualifications and training.
6. Consider your insurance coverage: If you have insurance, check with your provider to see which mental health professionals are covered by your plan. This may help you narrow down your search and save money.

Tips for respecting boundaries when sharing

When opening up to someone, it’s important to ensure the conversation remains respectful and balanced. Just as you need support, the person you’re talking to may have their own emotional and mental limits. Navigating these boundaries with care allows for a healthy exchange, ensuring both you and the listener feel comfortable. Here are a few thoughtful tips to help you share while respecting the other person’s boundaries.

1. Ask before sharing: Ensure the person is open to hearing what you want to discuss before diving in. A simple, “Is this a good time to get your opinion on something?” can go a long way.
2. Be mindful of their emotions: Gauge their reactions during the conversation. If they seem overwhelmed, it may be time to pause.
3. Respect their time: If someone seems busy or distracted, it’s okay to wait for a better moment to share.
4. Offer space to opt out: Let them know it’s okay if they don’t feel up to discussing certain topics.
5. Be brief and clear: Share what’s necessary without overwhelming the listener. It helps the conversation stay respectful and balanced.
6. Freedom to choose: Remember, no one is obligated to be a listening ear for anyone, we all choose to listen to what someone else shares and show support in the best way we can, so try not to get upset with others if they choose to stop listening.  Though it is disheartening, show gratitude for the time they have granted you.

Tips for staying safe when opening up to others

Opening up to others can be a powerful way to process emotions and find support. However, it’s just as important to ensure you’re protecting yourself during these vulnerable moments. As a woman, being mindful of your own boundaries and safety allows you to share in a way that feels secure and empowering. Here are a few key tips to help you stay safe while opening up to others.

1. Choose a trusted person: Share only with people you feel safe and comfortable with.
2. Limit what you disclose: Share as much as you’re comfortable with. It’s okay to keep some details private indefinitely or until you feel more secure.  Also, keep in mind the risk of sharing with others (excluding licensed therapists & counselors) these individuals may share with others what you have shared with them.  Here is where trust comes into play.
3. Trust your instincts: If at any point the conversation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it’s okay to step away.
4. Respect your own boundaries: You’re not obligated to answer questions or dive into topics you’re not ready for. Communicate this clearly and respectfully.
5. Have an exit strategy: If the conversation becomes overwhelming, know how to gracefully end it.

The power of journaling

Journaling is a therapeutic outlet for women. Writing down your thoughts and feelings not only helps you process emotions but also gives you time to reflect on your situation and clarify your perspective before sharing it with others. Journaling is a form of self-expression that can bring clarity and ease emotional overwhelm.

Embracing me time

We often get caught up in daily responsibilities and forget to make time for ourselves. Taking intentional “me time” is necessary for helping us reduce stress, find joy, and feel more balanced in our personal lives. Some of us may not have explored activities that bring us fulfillment and peace, but it’s never too late to start. Whether it’s enjoying a hobby, practicing mindfulness, or simply relaxing, dedicating time to self-care helps us reconnect with ourselves and recharge for the demands of everyday life.

Discover “me time” activities that anyone can enjoy.

Finding the right balance

Remember that finding someone to talk to is a process that takes time, and it’s okay to be selective about who you confide in. Whether it’s a professional, a peer, or a trusted online community, having someone to share your concerns with may lift the weight of isolation. Talking to someone can remind you that you’re not alone, helping you feel understood and supported as you navigate life’s challenges.

So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to consider who you might reach out to. You do have options, and even though it may feel challenging at first, the right support can make all the difference.

Disclaimer

Know that in all that you do, we wish you the best, but remember the details of this blog post are for information purposes only and are not to be taken as professional advice. If you are experiencing challenges with your health, please consult a licensed medical professional for guidance tailored to your specific situation.