What is Emotional Dumping?

Venting versus Dumping

Processing our feelings with trustworthy people can be incredibly helpful.

However, there’s a difference between venting in healthy ways and emotionally dumping.

When we notice signs that emotional dumping is happening, we can stop and address it, setting boundaries if we need to.

Venting

There is value in expressing our feelings when we have the consent of the listener, we stay focused on one issue at a time and we're receptive to what they have to offer us.

Emotional Dumping

• Not getting consent to express feelings
• Being reactive, repetitive, and unfocused
• Having a continuous monologue

• Not receiving feedback, support or solutions
• Equating intimacy with drama/intensity
• A habitual pattern of externalizing emotions

Examples of Getting Consent

"Do you have the time and energy to listen to something that's been upsetting me?"

"I'd love to talk to you about some stuff that's been bothering me.  Are you in a place to listen?"

Examples of Setting Boundaries

"As much as I'd like to listen to you, this isn't a good time for me."

"I'm happy to talk to you about this but only if you're open to what I have to say about it."

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