What is The Feelings Wheel?

The Feelings Wheel, created by Dr. Gloria Willcox can help us put words to our emotions which inturn can help us care for our mental health. Sometimes feelings can be big and intense and other times they are quiet, buried away, and harder to recognize. If you’re feeling frustrated and angry, it might be difficult to point to just one feeling, but having several to choose from may help you to zero in on exactly what’s going on inside.

How can I use it?

The Feelings Wheel serves as more than just a visual representation of emotions; it's a practical tool that empowers individuals to develop their emotional intelligence. The wheel made of concentric circles shows primary emotions and then breaks them down further into secondary and tertiary emotions to help you pinpoint exactly how you’re feeling. It’s a great tool for communication, or even journaling exactly how you’re feeling.

What is it best used for?

The Feelings Wheel is best used for communication, but it also enhances emotional intelligence, empathy, reflection and emotional regulation.

Are there any downsides?

There are very few downsides to expressing your emotions when you’re able to do it in a mindful manner. If you feel nervous about expressing how you feel, you can use The Feelings Wheel with a mental health professional. That way if expressing the feelings triggers anything big and scary, you have an advocate there to help you process it.