Guilt

When Guilt Won’t Let Go

It’s a feeling that sits in your chest, heavy and tight. Sometimes it’s quiet, a quiet whisper of “you should’ve known better.” Other times, it’s loud and relentless, replaying moments over and over in your mind. Words you said. Things you didn’t do. Mistakes you can’t seem to stop punishing yourself for.

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Guilt can show up after a specific event. It can also linger for years — tied to relationships, family dynamics, parenting choices, or past decisions that feel impossible to forgive.

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You may find yourself thinking:

• "Why can’t I move past this?"

• "If people really knew, they’d think I’m a bad person."

• "I don’t deserve to feel better."

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But here’s the truth: Guilt doesn’t always mean you did something wrong. And even when you have made a mistake,  you still deserve healing, understanding, and growth.

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What therapy can offer you

At Live Life Happy Therapy, we create space for the full complexity of guilt. Not to dismiss it. Not to dwell in it. But to understand it, and to learn how to move forward without carrying shame as your identity.

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Guilt can be a sign of empathy and awareness. But when it turns inward and becomes self-punishment, it stops being useful and starts becoming harmful. It can lead to anxiety, low self-worth, depression, and chronic stress. You don’t have to keep living under that weight.

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You are not your worst moment.

You are allowed to grow. To feel regret without drowning in it. To take responsibility without losing yourself in the process.

If guilt has been taking up too much space in your mind, your body, or your life — we’re here to help you release it, gently and at your pace.

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Get in Touch with Our Team You don’t have to have it all figured out.

That’s what we’re here for. Whether you're ready to book your first session, have a few questions, or just want to see if we're the right fit, we’d love to hear from you. At Live Life Happy Therapy, our team is here to listen, support, and guide you toward the next step at your own pace.

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References

1. Tangney, J. P., Stuewig, J., & Mashek, D. J. (2007). Moral emotions and moral behavior. Annual Review of Psychology.
   https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev.psych.56.091103.070145

2. Brown, B. (2012). Daring Greatly. Gotham Books.
   https://brenebrown.com/book/daring-greatly/

3. Greenberg, L. S. (2002). Emotion-Focused Therapy: Coaching Clients to Work Through Their Feelings. American Psychological Association.
   https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2002-02650-000​