What is "Emotional Capacity" (Ciera)
Emotions are often something that we can’t find the words to explain. They’re a feeling, an intangible thing inside of us that we know we feel, yet can struggle to articulate to others. So, what do people mean by the term ‘emotional capacity’? What does it mean within the context of us (our emotional capacity) as well as within the context of others (their emotional capacity, or the emotional capacity that we have for others)?
What is our emotional capacity?
Our emotional capacity refers to the amount of emotion that we are feeling at any given moment. Think of your emotional capacity as a mug in your chest filled with water. When this mug overflows during times of high emotion, you may feel like crying or breaking down. This water could also make you feel heavy, numb or less able to cope than if the load was lessened. During a time like this your emotional capacity is low: you are overwhelmed and have little capacity left to take on any more stimulation, from either yourself or possibly others.
When the mug is feeling lighter, this could be a sign that you have just released your emotions and feel a bit calmer. Or perhaps you woke up feeling more able to tackle the day that particular day. During this state your emotional capacity is high: your emotions are feeling relatively stable and you feel more able to navigate your way through the day.
What is our emotional capacity relating to others?
The emotional capacity that we hold for ourselves is different from the capacity that we have available for others. However, they do have some connection.
The emotional capacity that we have for others relates to the amount that we feel able to extend ourselves and offer assistance. For instance, if you are having a heavy mental health day with a fuller mug, you may feel less able to be a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear for someone else.
You do not need to feel guilty for feeling unable to help others when you are in this state. I know it can be easier said than done but try to remember that sometimes in order to help and be there for others, you need to first help and be there for yourself.
How can I recharge my emotional capacity?
Since emotions are hard to define and differ for everyone, so do the remedies. Due to this, it’s important to take some time to reflect on what you can do to specifically benefit yourself and your particular set of emotions.
Some people recharge by being around others, whereas many more introverted people better recharge their emotional and social batteries by spending time alone.
Some people recharge by crying and physically letting their emotions out of their system. Whereas others may find it more useful to journal their feelings out onto paper.
Some people may find that meditating or going for a walk can help to clear their mind. Whereas for others binge watching their favorite show in bed could be just the distraction needed to switch their whirling thoughts off for a while.
Whatever your emotional capacity is today, please remember that it is valid and you are loved. No matter how many emotions you are feeling, that doesn’t make you any less deserving of goodness or any less important in this world. Please take care of yourself, however you best see fit, and remember that better days and moments are still yet to come.
If you are feeling down and need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Letters Against Depression if you haven’t already. We send letters of hope and support to those who need someone there for them. You can request to receive letters here.