Hi Bathsheba,

first of all I love your way of calling it emotional housekeeping! I myself use the term emotional healing. You're absolutely right about taking some time for yourself and simply be alone, reflecting on your life and emotions. I do it all the time and it works every time.

When you said "I'm refusing to do the hand-holding soothing "hey it's ok, caaaalm down everything will be ok" thing. For me that hasn't worked". I would add to that - For me that hasn't worked so far! That way you're still keeping an open mind with the possibility of it working for you in the future.

In regards to your other question, how to help others dealing with their emotions, I would say there is one thing that in my opinion works 100% every time, but it sometimes takes time, and sometimes you really need to be very patient. That is 'thing' is love, unconditional love. I know this sounds a little corny, but I truly do believe that.

Of course there are limitless ways to help someone, but to truly love someone in my opinion is enough. The thing is, when you interact with the person you want to help, saying "I love you" usually doesnt cut it, lol. S/He simply needs to know that S/He is loved. And for them to feel and know that, its up you how you want to let them know that.

....just my thoughts on this new thread