Traditionally, suppression was thought to be universally maladaptive due to the "rebound effect"—the idea that the more you try to ignore a thought (like a "white bear"), the more frequently it returns . However, perspective is shifting:
How to Regulate Emotions Without Suppressing Them offers research-backed alternatives like cognitive reappraisal . suppress
Use it to get through a high-stakes moment, but set aside time later to actually process the emotion through journaling or therapy . Helpful Resources for Deep Dives suppress