How Secrets Become Psychological Poison—and Why Radical Honesty Sets You Free

Throughout her journey as both therapist and patient, Lori spent years guarding certain truths—about her health, her uncertainties, and even hidden corners of her own relationships. Sitting in Wendell’s office, she sometimes found herself skirting the real issue, offering partial truths, or holding back on discussing her mystery illness or private fears.

But it was only when she voiced her deepest concerns, moments she wanted to avoid or hide—her disappointment, doubts about her future, shame over past decisions—that sessions gained their real power. Lori observed that patients, too, changed most when their secrets could be spoken aloud, even awkwardly. Sometimes, disclosing something as simple as 'I’m afraid you don’t like me,' could break a logjam and bring real connection.

Psychologically, secrets create stress, drain mental energy, and keep people stuck in cycles of anxiety. Carl Jung called them 'psychic poison' for good reason: the more you hide, the more isolated you feel. Research in clinical psychology shows that honest confession, especially in a supportive environment, reliably leads to reduced guilt, greater clarity, and improved well-being. The discomfort of disclosure is outweighed by the freedom on the other side.

For Lori and her patients alike, every breakthrough required the courage to say the unsayable, to themselves and, when ready, to others.

Think about one area where you usually hold back or stay silent, even in close company. Choose a person you trust, or your journal if that feels safer, and share this truth in a simple, direct way, skipping any long justifications. Afterward, pay close attention to how your body and emotions respond—maybe you feel lighter, or perhaps more exposed, but either way, you’ve taken a real step toward freedom. This habit of honesty, practiced regularly, steadily loosens the hold of secrets and turns shame into connection. Try revealing one truth in the next day or two.