Is it healthy to repress emotions? Both repression and suppression of distressing memories and emotions may be helpful in the short-term to make it through a difficult period and avoid total mental collapse, but both trauma responses are unhealthy in the long run.

How can repression be a good thing?

Introduced by Sigmund Freud, the purpose of this defense mechanism is to try to minimize feelings of guilt and anxiety. However, while repression might initially be effective, it can lead to greater anxiety down the road. 1 Freud believed that repression could lead to psychological distress.

Is repression good or bad?

But research has linked emotional repression to decreased immune system function. If your immune system doesn't work properly, you might get sick more frequently and recover slowly. Repressed emotions can also factor into mental health conditions, such as stress, anxiety, and depression.