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Need Advice or SupportEmotions
Lately I've been feeling ashamed of having intense emotions, especially because I work with men in more than one capacity and feel particularly self-conscious around appearing too "feminine" or "weak." I wholeheartedly disagree with all of that nonsense but I would love support from other women who understand what the patriarchy does to self-image.
I don't cry in front of people, ever, but I do get stressed out easily. More than once, I've been blamed for being "too emotional" or "overly sensitive," accusations with which I've dealt for my entire life. But I have multiple mental health issues, mostly due to experiences with child abuse. Right now I'm honestly just feeling extra on edge because I've had several weeks of relapsing into an old eating disorder.
I don't know what I'm looking for, but I would like to hear from others who consider themselves to be quite composed and intelligent most of the time but worry about coming off as "too emotional."
(For additional context: grew up with three brothers who were always allowed to show their feelings, while I was generally forbidden from the same or at least scolded for it.)