People Share The Skeletons In Their Closets That Would Drastically Change How Others View Them
There's no denying that some secrets have the power to change everything
I’m not sure I’d believe someone who claimed to have no secrets. I feel like secrets are inherent to our nature as humans.
There are some things that feel as though they can’t be shared with anyone else. Sometimes it’s as simple as a controversial opinion; other times, it can be something much deeper and sinister.
The fear and anxiety of being negatively judged, rejected, or feared by others because of our secrets make it that much harder to share. But there’s truly a remarkable feeling of relief to be able to share these heavy burdens.
Thanks to the internet, we have the ability to remain safe within the anonymity it provides. This helps make sense for why a recent r/AskReddit question received a lot of attention.
User u/Difficult-House6853 asked fellow Redditors, “What’s a secret that would change how the people around you look at you if they knew?” and received thousands of responses. Folks, emboldened by the anonymous nature of the internet and Reddit took their opportunity to share the skeletons they’ve hidden deep in their closets, and many found solidarity from other Reddtiors.
We collected the top 30 most popular responses to share with you. Keep scrolling to read more.
1. An seemingly unending emptiness
I’m empty inside and have been since 2019.
giphy2. Chaotic Zoo Keepers
A few years ago, I went to the zoo during their Halloween celebration month where costumes were allowed. I dressed up as a zoo keeper. I told people that the penguins were animatronic. That when the giraffes get sick we feed them to the lions. I told a group of children that scientifically speaking, snakes and apples are cousins.
giphy3. A big mood
I cry almost every night but don‘t want to tell anybody since I‘d feel like a burden
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The Nature of Secrets
Secrets can significantly impact an individual's psychological well-being, often leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety.
Research by Dr. Michael Slepian at Columbia University shows that keeping secrets can consume cognitive resources, leading to decreased mental clarity and increased stress.
Individuals may struggle with the burden of concealment, which can lead to complications in relationships and self-perception.
The Psychology of Secrets and Personal Narratives
Sharing personal secrets can be a powerful act of vulnerability, often leading to feelings of liberation and connection.
Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that disclosing personal narratives can enhance social bonds and promote emotional well-being.
However, the fear of judgment often leads individuals to keep secrets, which can create feelings of isolation and distress.
4. Nihilism on point
I don't give a damn about anything or anyone at this point. Life feels like a game, and I'm just a spectator until this body fails. Any connections I form, I have no intention of nurturing. The human experience is so shallow compared to the universe at large that I can't shake the perspective that none of the tears, suffering, or smiles matter at all. They're a flourishing of energy that'll at some point be done flourishing.I don't understand how people get so invested in life like any of this show is of any importance at all.I enjoy a pretty sunset, or a laugh with others, but I'm not convinced any of it makes the game worth the candle.
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5. An ex-cult member
I was in a cult for a couple years."Experiencing life in a cult can profoundly impact one's identity and relationships," says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist. "It's essential to understand the psychological ramifications and seek support to rebuild one's sense of self."
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6. Actively choosing kindness
What I’ve been through in the past, and what I continue to go through (because of my “broken brain” due to all that). I make a deliberate choice each day to choose love and connection, as cheesy as that sounds. I don’t want anyone to ever feel as alone and unwanted as I do. I’ve gotten a reputation as “the sweet innocent one” and I come off as a bit naïve, it really shocks people if they learn about my past. It’s like no, my kindness is a choice. I can’t change what happened but I can change what happens now, and what happens to others. Break the cycle, everyone!
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Moreover, the act of sharing secrets can serve as a mechanism for emotional release and connection.
Studies suggest that individuals who disclose personal secrets often experience relief and stronger relational bonds.
According to the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, sharing secrets can foster intimacy and trust, essential components of healthy relationships.
The act of revealing secrets can also trigger complex emotional responses, including relief and anxiety.
Studies indicate that the emotional release associated with sharing secrets can foster personal growth but can also lead to feelings of shame if the secrets are perceived negatively.
A clinical psychologist emphasizes that understanding the emotional landscape of sharing secrets is crucial for fostering healthier relationships.
7. *Talking Heads plays in the background*
I am married, I own my house (half-half with my wife) have 3 kids and I have a steady job. I have no clue how i got there, and i have no clue what I am supposed to do 90% of the time
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8. Trauma can be devastating longterm
I am under the constant and irrational assumption that everyone knows something that I don't. I fully understand that it is unwarranted and I'm being paranoid, but the mental blockade it has created means that it's really hard for me to trust people.Think of it as constantly worrying that everyone has a snake in their pocket, and it's only until you know for sure they do/don't that you'll be fine.
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9. Janitor with millions
I’m a janitor. But I’m worth over a million dollars because I own real estate.
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The Psychological Burden of Keeping Secrets
Keeping secrets can lead to chronic stress and emotional turmoil, affecting mental health.
Research indicates that the psychological burden of secrecy may manifest in physical symptoms, including fatigue and anxiety.
Understanding the toll of secrecy can help individuals recognize the importance of seeking support and finding safe spaces for disclosure.
The Impact of Social Judgment on Self-Perception
The fear of how others might perceive one's secrets can significantly influence self-esteem and personal identity.
Research published in the Journal of Social Issues highlights that individuals often internalize negative judgments from others, leading to distorted self-perceptions.
This phenomenon underscores the importance of creating safe spaces for sharing and discussing personal experiences.
10. A recovering abuser
I was an abusive boyfriend, I still can't forgive myself for it
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11. A Christian who feels out of place
I'm a Christian (thus isn't the secret. I hope.) and am disgusted by a lot of things that fellow Christians do in the name of Christ. My spouse and I have a hard time going to church. Trump supporting, covid deniers, anti masking.Yet hosting a vaccine clinic in the early days of mass vaccination roll outs as a service to the community and I'm sure to show Christ's love.
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12. An escort with a wealth of secrets
The actual things ive been paid ludicrous amounts of money to do as a highclass escort in Dubai.
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Therapeutic approaches focused on exploring and disclosing secrets can significantly improve emotional well-being.
Studies in clinical psychology highlight that processing secrets in a supportive environment can lead to healing and growth.
Therapists often encourage clients to articulate their experiences, which can be liberating and reduce feelings of shame.
To navigate the complexities of sharing secrets, experts recommend seeking supportive environments where individuals can feel safe disclosing their experiences.
Engaging with trusted friends or mental health professionals can provide a sense of security and validation, facilitating healthier emotional processing.
Additionally, practicing self-compassion can help individuals mitigate the negative impacts of judgment, allowing for greater emotional resilience.
13. A self-proclaimed attention lover
Sometimes I crave attention from other people , like an attention hoe level
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14. All the trauma getting in the way
I have so much unresolved trauma and I'm just trying to have a good time
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15. Faulty mental health
My mental health is circling the drain, I'm horribly depressed, but I am trying so hard to get better.
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Creating Opportunities for Disclosure
Fostering environments where individuals feel safe to share their secrets is crucial for mental health.
Community support groups or therapy can provide essential spaces for people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment.
Research shows that supportive communities can enhance resilience and promote healing through shared experiences.
The Therapeutic Value of Sharing Personal Stories
Therapeutic approaches often incorporate the sharing of personal stories as a means of promoting healing and understanding.
Research shows that narrative therapy can be particularly effective in helping individuals reframe their experiences and gain insight into their emotions.
This method encourages individuals to view their lives through a different lens, fostering empowerment and emotional growth.
16. Inevitable hormone changes causing unexpected side effects
I am an absolute horny mess right now…perimenopause is turning me into someone even I don’t recognize 😂
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17. Having an extremely stigmatized mental illness
I have schizophrenia.
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18. Literally anti-social
I have a very hard time liking/growing fond of people, even after knowing them for years. I could just drop all contact with them and not miss them at all. Was like this even as a child, all the way to now…
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Encouraging open dialogues about secrets within families can also promote understanding and healing.
Families can benefit from discussions about personal experiences, creating a supportive atmosphere that fosters trust and intimacy.
By normalizing these conversations, families can reduce the stigma around secrets and enhance relational bonds.
Individuals are encouraged to explore their stories through journaling or storytelling groups to facilitate emotional processing.
These practices can help individuals articulate their experiences and connect with others who may share similar struggles.
Ultimately, engaging with one’s narrative can lead to a deeper understanding of self and a sense of belonging.
19. From a Mormon family, but is attracted to everyone
I like both men and womenIt sounds trivial but my family is morman and I wound be able to handle it if they find out
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20. Never graduated high school
I didn’t graduate high school. I was getting out of an abusive relationship my senior year, getting stalked, and was super depressed and ended up dropping out. I got my GED at 20, and am now an engineering major at my university. But I’ve never told my friends or boyfriend that i didn’t graduate, and i even lie on job applications.
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21. A victim of extreme child abuse
..My parents had me chemically castrated as a pre-pubescent kid?..not really a secret though, turns out pretty much everyone around me knew way before I did...well, during "the talk", I think that we spoke about having children, how a Mother and a Father comes together and make someone like them,but better.. or something along those lines (I'm almost 40, it's been a while) and... well, if I remember things correctly, I think I might have said that I wanted to have children with my sister (3 years younger) so yeah, to prevent inbreeding I guess?
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22. A super sense of smell
My sense of smell is off the charts. I can usually tell if someone showers in the morning or at night by the way their hair smells. If someone ate a yogurt in an auditorium hours prior but threw out the container in the trash and I walk in on the other side of the room I can smell the yogurt. My memory is also sense-driven. I remember people by their voices or scent, not their faces, or if there is something different about them (odd gait, odd body proportions, etc). My touch memory is also weird. Did I lock the front door? I focus on my hand and go through what my hand has felt in the past 20 minutes and if the feeling of locking the door is there I’m good. I’m literally a freak and if people knew how much of their behavior/body-oddities/scent I actually have no choice but to remember, everyone would look at me like I’m a monster.
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23. Living in fear
How incredibly terrified I am nearly all of the time. I'm not confident, I don't think I'm in control any more, I don't think I can do this. And still, here I go
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24. Just trying not to be rude
People think that I’m a good listener, and that just makes them say things to me that they really shouldn’t. I’m only listening because I don’t want to be rude, not because I care. Don’t tell me your family secrets, please.
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25. Their dog is better
I get more of a rush out of training my dog than any experience I've shared with humans. Dogs just feel more intense and genuine. when you look at them you know they are there, present, with you. There's only a handful of people I can say have ever even come close to that level of understanding and none of them managed to achieve it without words the way the dogs I've worked with can.
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26. How dark those intrusive thoughts can get
My intrusive thoughts. Holy shit sometimes i surprise myself on how gnarly i think in just a second.
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27. Their plans to leave their religion
All of my friends and family are Jehovahs witnesses, they think I am but I plan to leave. 85% of them will shun me when I leave
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28. Their real identity
That I have serious gender identity issues and would transition in a heartbeat if I could, except I know that none of my family would ever accept me.
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29. Naughty neighborhood secret
Our house was the first one on our street to be built. My husband and I had sex in every single house on our street while they were under construction. I imagine our neighbors would look at us differently if they know we’d f**ked in their house before they even had a chance to.
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30. Not to be dismissive, but I feel like many of us are
How much of an emotionally exhausted and fragile wreck of a person I am right now.
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Do you have any “skeletons” that you’d hope will never see the light of day? What do you think would change for you if your friends or other loved ones discovered your deepest, darkest secret you would never want to have shared?
While you don’t have to share the details (but you are definitely welcome to), drop a comment below to share your thoughts.
Psychological Analysis
This situation reflects the complex interplay between personal identity and social perceptions. It’s essential to create supportive environments that encourage openness and understanding, allowing individuals to share their stories without fear of judgment.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, the act of sharing personal secrets can be both liberating and challenging.
Research consistently supports the notion that vulnerability can enhance personal connections and promote emotional healing.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Secrets can weigh heavily on individuals, affecting their mental health and relationships.
By creating safe spaces for disclosure and encouraging open conversations, we can foster a culture of understanding and support.
Ultimately, addressing the psychological impacts of secrecy is essential for promoting emotional well-being and healthy relationships.
