What if the very thing you fear—being vulnerable—holds the key to unlocking inner strength, connection, and healing? In recognition of Time to Talk Day 2025, consider how, for many of us, vulnerability often feels uncomfortable or even risky, yet it is one of the most profound acts of courage. Sharing your authentic self, including fears and uncertainties, creates opportunities for growth, understanding, and emotional liberation. Talking therapy sessions, whether in person or online, provides a space to express these feelings openly without judgment.
As Brene Brown says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change”.
Why Do We Resist Vulnerability?
Many of us are raised to believe we must always “hold it together” or avoid showing emotions in public. Phrases like “stay strong” or “don’t let them see you cry” instil the idea that vulnerability is a weakness rather than a natural part of being human. Cultural expectations, societal norms, and even family dynamics can reinforce this belief, creating an internalised pressure to suppress our feelings.
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We may fear being judged, misunderstood, or rejected if we show vulnerability. For some, it might feel like admitting to struggles could undermine their sense of control or competence. Others may worry about burdening loved ones or believe their emotions are invalid compared to others’ challenges.
This avoidance often comes at a cost. Unacknowledged emotions can lead to anxiety, chronic stress, or even physical symptoms such as tension headaches or fatigue. Suppressing vulnerability doesn’t make emotions disappear; instead, it can cause them to manifest in ways that strain relationships, hinder personal growth, and impact overall well-being. Learning to embrace vulnerability is not about exposing oneself indiscriminately but about developing authentic connections and building emotional resilience.
Take a moment to reflect on this common belief: does hiding your emotions really make you stronger, or does it leave you feeling as though you’re carrying a heavy burden?
Rethinking Vulnerability
Rather than seeing vulnerability as a flaw, consider it an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and others. Moments of openness allow us to connect on a meaningful level, free from the façade of perfection.
Talking therapy encourages this shift in perspective. By engaging in open and honest conversations with a trained professional, you can explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe and supportive setting. Counselling and therapy is not about having all the answers but about creating a space to ask questions and navigate your emotional landscape.
How Counselling and Talking Therapy Transforms Mental Health
Talking therapy is more than just a conversation. It is a process of self-discovery where you can identify unhelpful patterns, uncover insights, and develop strategies for coping. For those who might find face-to-face sessions daunting or impractical, online therapy has made this process more accessible than ever.
Online therapy allows you to prioritise your mental health without the added stress of travel or rigid scheduling. Whether you are at home or another safe space, therapy becomes a convenient part of your routine.
Set aside a quiet moment to explore what you might need from therapy. Are you looking to understand a specific issue or seeking support for general mental health? A clear intention can help you make the most of your sessions.
The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health
Sharing your story is not just beneficial for you; it can also inspire and encourage others. When you speak openly about your struggles, you challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and vulnerability.
Research shows that storytelling has a healing effect. Articulating your experiences helps you process them, while also making others feel less alone. Whether in therapy sessions, through journaling, or speaking with a trusted friend, sharing your story is an act of empowerment.
Social Expectations and Mental Health
Modern life often encourages us to compare ourselves to others, creating additional pressure to “perform” happiness and success. Social media, for example, can amplify feelings of inadequacy or loneliness. Taking a break from this environment to focus on your inner world can make a significant difference.
Another challenge is the perception that mental health struggles are a sign of failure. This mindset is shifting, but there is still work to be done to normalise therapy as an act of self-care rather than a last resort.
Challenge yourself: How often do you let external expectations dictate your feelings or actions? What would it look like to prioritise your emotional well-being over appearances?
Turning Vulnerability into Strength
True strength is not about appearing unaffected by life’s challenges; it lies in the courage to face them honestly. Recognising when you need support and being willing to seek it is a profound act of self-awareness and self-care. It demonstrates resilience, not weakness, to acknowledge that we cannot do everything alone.
When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you may find that the fears and burdens you have carried for so long are less overwhelming than they appeared. Sharing your experiences with others—whether through counselling, trusted relationships, or community—can help to normalise your feelings and lighten the emotional load.
Vulnerability also brings clarity. By expressing your thoughts and emotions, you can better understand yourself and what truly matters in your life. It allows you to identify areas for growth, set boundaries, and focus on what brings you fulfillment. Far from being a liability, vulnerability can be a powerful catalyst for deeper connections, personal insight, and meaningful change.
Your Next Step Towards Change
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but it is also an act of self-respect. Booking an online therapy session is a small but meaningful decision that prioritises your well-being. Talking therapy equips you with tools to navigate difficult situations with resilience.
You do not need to have all the answers or know exactly where to begin. Simply starting the conversation is enough to initiate change. Over time, you will build a greater sense of clarity and confidence in managing your emotions.
Book Your Therapy Session Online
This Time to Talk Day, take the first step towards healing by booking a therapy session. Embrace vulnerability and make the choice to prioritise yourself and your mental health. Book your therapy session online today and take the first step towards a healthier, more connected version of yourself.
At Leone Centre, we have a team of experienced therapists available for sessions online and in-person in London.
Learn More About Time to Talk Day
Time to Talk Day 2025 is an annual event dedicated to encouraging open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma, and fostering connections by reminding people that talking has the power to heal and bring support to those who need it.
New insights shared on Time to Talk Day 2024 highlighted a widespread tendency to ‘put on a brave face’ rather than opening up about mental health struggles during challenging moments. The tendency to hold emotions in was particularly prominent among younger age groups, with 69% of 16–24-year-olds and 72% of 25–34-year-olds admitting they often avoid expressing their true feelings.
While saying we’re ‘fine’ might feel simpler in the moment, suppressing emotions can take a toll on our mental wellbeing. Time to Talk Day served as an important reminder of how meaningful conversations about mental health can break down feelings of loneliness and create stronger connections.
Visit Time to Talk Day website.
- About the Author
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Co-founder and director of Leone Centre, 20+ years of experience supporting people, and offering valuable knowledge through Couples Counselling and Individual Counselling. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in the financial sector.
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