Question

During the psychotherapy session, I said about my past, I didn't want to say. I have a bit of stomachache and doesn't feel good after the session. Is this normal?

Answer 1

Experiencing physical discomfort, such as a stomachache, and not feeling good after a psychotherapy session, especially when discussing difficult or uncomfortable topics from the past, is not uncommon. It's essential to remember that therapy can evoke strong emotions and bring up unresolved issues, which may lead to physical sensations and discomfort.

Here are a few reasons why you might be feeling this way:

1. Emotional Release: Discussing past events and emotions can lead to an emotional release. Sometimes, this release can manifest physically, such as feeling tension or experiencing a stomachache.

2. Psychological Defense Mechanism: Your mind might be using physical discomfort as a defense mechanism to avoid diving deeper into difficult emotions or memories. It could be a way of protecting yourself from overwhelming feelings.

3. Anxiety or Nervousness: Talking about sensitive topics can bring about feelings of anxiety or nervousness, which may manifest as physical symptoms like a stomachache.

4. Reliving Traumatic Events: If the past experiences being discussed are traumatic, recalling them during therapy may cause distress and physical discomfort.

5. Unresolved Feelings: The process of opening up about past experiences can stir up unresolved feelings, leading to physical discomfort as your body responds to these emotions.

It's crucial to communicate these feelings with your therapist. They are trained to support you through challenging emotional experiences. Let your therapist know about the stomachache and how you've been feeling after the session. It can be an essential topic to explore together as it may provide valuable insights into your emotional responses and experiences during therapy.

In general, it's normal to feel a bit emotionally drained or physically uncomfortable after a therapy session, especially if you've discussed difficult subjects. However, if the discomfort persists or becomes overwhelming, it's essential to address it with your therapist promptly. They can help you navigate these feelings and make the necessary adjustments to ensure a positive therapeutic experience.