Are you good at identifying emotions/feelings within yourself?

Example 1: At my last psych appointment the pdoc said I looked happy. I didn't think I was.

Example 2: Was recently seen at main hospital emergency department  because of chest pains. Tests were ok, but BP was higher than normal . Had to go for follow up the next day . Doctor said it had been  raised because I was anxious. Apparently my pulse rate was fast.  I hadn't noticed I was anxious.

I don't think it happens all the time ie I sometimes know when I'm anxious etc .

Parents Reply Children
  • Yes, that's exactly my experience. I'm aware of 'amygdala' type emotions - anger, fear etc (although often can't connect it to a cause) but have no idea what I'm feeling unless it's powerfully overwhelming. I'm not aware of my emotional responses to things happening in my environment. Even with strong emotions, if I'm not able to do anything about it, I'll 'switch it off'.