Written by Sarah Davies
Registered Psychologist
Posted: May 30 2023
Everyone shares their problems with friends or family, and when they do, we want to be supportive and there for them. However, it can be useful to recognise the difference between simply venting and ‘emotional dumping’.
The difference between venting and emotional dumping
Venting is when someone shares their emotions with the goal of seeking validation or finding a solution to their problem.
Emotional dumping is when someone shares their emotions, thoughts, and feelings without considering the emotional wellbeing of the person they are confiding in. It is also often very one-sided, and without any clear intention or direction. This type of behaviour can be draining, exhausting, and even harmful to relationships.
Setting boundaries on emotional dumping with your friends and family
If you find yourself on the receiving end of emotional dumping, it's important to set boundaries to take care of your emotional wellbeing.
- Communicate
Let the person know if you're not emotionally available to listen at the moment, but you're willing to listen another time - Suggest professional help
Encourage the person to seek professional help if they are struggling with emotional issues. You are not expected to respond as their trained, personal therapist. - Avoid giving unsolicited advice
Sometimes, people just want to vent and don't need advice. So, it's essential to understand the person's intention before offering advice. Sometimes they just need to be heard and validated, while other times they may appreciate a problem-solving brainstorm.
How to avoid emotionally dumping on your friends and family
If you find yourself emotional dumping on others, there are other coping strategies you can try when feeling stressed or anxious.
- Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga can help you become more self-aware of your emotions and manage them more effectively. - Try journaling
Writing about your feelings in a journal can be a helpful way to process your emotions and thoughts without requiring others to do it for you. - Ask permission
Before you start sharing your emotions with someone, ask them if they are emotionally available to listen first. It's important to be respectful of other people's boundaries and not force them to listen to you if they say they don’t have space for it in that moment.
If you need further support, your GP can be a good place to start who can assist with a referral to a psychologist.
By taking the steps to manage emotional dumping, you can have healthier and more meaningful relationships.
Supporting your health and wellbeing
Looking after your emotional and mental state is important to your overall health and wellbeing. Whether you are looking for information about mental health for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help.
Posted: May 30 2023
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© Copyright Health Partners. 2024 All Rights Reserved.
Health Partners is committed to providing quality and affordable health care, and we value our members and our obligation to protect your privacy. As part of our responsibility in protecting your privacy, from time to time we review our policies to ensure we are meeting our obligations. We have recently made some updates to our Privacy Policy. Please click here to view the Health Partners Privacy Policy.