Search Results: opening up emotionally

Lately, I've been feeling kind of down because of some things going on around me. They're not things I have any control over, but just stuff that I have to deal with as it comes.

Thing is, I've noticed that in the past 2 or so years, I've sort of developed this inability to open up to others about what's bothering me, even if they're people I'm close to. I know I started to change after I shared something personal with my sister and got a bad reaction, but I don't know whether it's a good thing or not.

Most of the time, I'm optimistic and am very self-reliant emotionally, and I usually think that it's a good thing. I tend to use a lot of the techniques I learned in college and from previous counseling to keep up my self-care and not neglect any of my issues. However, I sometimes wonder if I've taken it to an extreme, where I'm unable to open up to others because I think doing so now will make me seem weak, whereas I'm usually the silly, calm, and mostly level-headed one around those that I see throughout my days.

I don't think I am weak, but I just worry others will see me that way. Over the past few days, I've found myself in tears, and just in general, needing comfort, but I can't seem to seek out any help from those I'm close to. If anything, I try to hide or spend time alone when I'm upset.

So, I'm wondering what the rest of you do, and if it works for you.

Do you keep to yourself and work on your issues inside your head, or with the use of other techniques (i.e., music, dance, journaling, exercise, etc)? Does it work for you? Do you do it because it works, or because you're afraid of opening up to others?

And for those that seek help from others, does this work for you? Are you ever afraid of being perceived as weak? And do you find yourself then becoming emotionally dependent on the person (or people) you go to, or is that not an issue for you?

Detailed answers are appreciated, or you can just do the poll. Thank you.