Catharsis is the release of emotions or complaints that are stored in the mind. In psychology, catharsis is also interpreted as a way to vent emotions positively so that a person feels more relieved and can carry out daily activities with a better feeling.
Anger, sadness, fear, and disappointment are normal emotions experienced by every human being. Although normal, these emotions should be channeled so as not to accumulate in the mind. However, it takes the right way to vent emotions. One of them is by catharsis.
If not channeled properly, emotions can exacerbate existing problems or create new problems. In fact, not infrequently emotions that are not channeled cause stress or depression.
Definition and Definition of Catharsis
Catharsis comes from the Greek katharsis which means purification or cleansing. In the realm of psychology, catharsis is defined as an attempt to rid oneself of negative feelings, such as anger, resentment, sadness, or pent-up hurt.
By expressing these feelings, a person can feel more relieved and calm. According to psychoanalytic theory, this emotional release is related to the need to defuse an unconscious conflict.
So, stress and frustration can actually be a signal that there is a conflict that needs to be resolved or that there are feelings that are being suppressed and need to be released.
Buried emotions can affect the physical and mental health of the person experiencing them. This is why it is so important to identify, deal with, and express emotions in a positive way.
Different Ways to Do Catharsis
Catharsis can be done as a form of psychotherapy with the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. In addition, catharsis can also be applied as a daily habit to deal with stress.
The following are some examples of catharsis that can be done in everyday life:
1. Tell or vent with friends
Lonely people are more susceptible to various health problems, ranging from heart disease, stroke, to depression. On the other hand, by having good friends to confide in, a person will feel more enthusiastic about life and not easily discouraged and depressed.
Talking is a form of catharsis that is very easy to do and has been shown to be good for mental health. When you talk to other people, you can bring out your emotions, ideas, thoughts, or complaints. That way, you can be more relaxed afterwards.
2. Exercising
Exercise is not only good for physical health, but also mental health. This activity can trigger the release of various hormones in the brain, such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These hormones function to induce a sense of calm, deal with stress, improve mood, to reduce pain.
This is what makes exercise a good form of catharsis. Any type of exercise, from light to vigorous, can be used as a cathartic.
3. Sing
Listening to songs and singing is one way to release boredom and fatigue and forget for a moment the problems that exist. Without realizing it sometimes singing can be a medium to channel emotions, thus making you feel better.
4. Shout
Yelling can also be a good form of catharsis. By shouting, you can indirectly vent and release your stored emotions and thoughts.
5. Write
Various studies reveal that there are many benefits of writing for mental health, especially for people who find it difficult to express their emotions and feelings.
Expressing your complaints through writing can help you release pent-up emotions. Not only that, writing can also be a creative way to relieve stress and anxiety.
In addition to the methods above, you can also do catharsis through other activities, as long as it doesn't harm yourself or others, for example, painting or trying doodle, watching movies, or cooking.
Letting go of your emotions may not always be easy to do, especially if you've been used to keeping your emotions in check for a long time or have had trauma and inner wounds. Although it seems trivial, ignoring and suppressing emotions can have an impact on physical and mental health, including increasing the risk of depression.
If you have tried various ways to express feelings or emotions through catharsis but still feel something is blocking or disturbing you, you can consult a psychologist to find out the cause and how to overcome it.