Talking about your feelings is the best way to learn more about yourself and find help for your problems, so don't be afraid to talk to an adult the next time you want to sort out your feelings.

Sometimes the toughest thing about feelings can be sharing them with others. Just because it's hard to talk about feelings doesn't mean it isn't worth it, though.

Sharing your feelings helps you when your feelings are good and when they aren't so good. Sharing also helps you to get closer to people you care about and who care about you. When people talk about feelings, they sometimes use the word "emotions." Learn more about how to talk about your feelings and emotions by reading below.

Focusing on Your Feelings
You can't tell your friends what's inside your backpack if you don't know what's in there yourself. Feelings are the same way. Before you can share them with anyone, you have to figure out what feelings you have!

Making a list of your feelings can help. You can do this in your head or by writing it out on a piece of paper or even by drawing pictures. What is the main emotion you have? Are you happy? Are you sad? Are you mad? Do you feel this emotion only right now or do you feel it all the time?

You can also describe your feelings with your words. When you're trying to figure out your feelings, remember a situation and then think about how it made you feel.

Saying things like, "I feel happy when I get to go swimming" or "I feel sad when my friend can't play with me," helps people understand you better. Just saying, "I'm happy" or "I'm sad" or saying nothing at all is not as clear to people you are sharing your feelings with.

Why Should You Talk to Parents or Adults About Your Feelings?
If you are upset about something, it's going to affect your behavior. If you try to keep your strong feelings inside, it might even make you sick by giving you stomachaches or headaches. It's a good idea to find someone to talk to about your feelings so that doesn't happen.

The best reason to talk to your mom or dad or another adult about your feelings is because they care about you, and it will almost always help you feel better. People who love you want to know what's happening in your life when they aren't with you, and they want to make sure you're happy.

Your mom or dad knows you better than anyone else. He or she was there when you were scared. Your mom or dad knows what you're like with your friends. He or she knows when you're worried or upset.

Your friends are important, but getting ideas from grown-ups is important, too. They'll be there when your friends won't. And your friends don't have all the information or experience that an adult has.

Parents and adults are great to talk to because when they were kids, they went through the same kinds of things you're going through. They can offer you help if you need it, or they can just listen.

When to Talk to Parents or Adults About Your Feelings
When you're upset, sad, or worried about something, tell your mom or dad or another adult that you need help. You don't have to face things alone. This is especially important if someone treats you badly or abuses you.

Talking about your feelings is the best way to learn more about yourself and find help for your problems, so don't be afraid to talk to an adult the next time you want to sort out your feelings.

Reviewed by: Brian Mesinger, PhD
Date reviewed: April 2001

Source: KidsHealth www.KidsHealth.com is a project of The Nemours Foundation which is dedicated to improving the health and spirit of children. Today, as part of its continuing mission, the Foundation supports the operation of a number of renowned children's health facilities throughout the nation, including the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware, and the Nemours Children's Clinics throughout Florida. Visit The Nemours Foundation to find out more about them and its health facilities for children http://www.nemours.org/no/