h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I try to choose who I unburden myself to, but yes I find that talking things through really helps. I'd go mad if I kept everything bottled in (but then, I'm not English either ).

A diary is good - you can go back to it and see how certain events made you feel.

I agree. One or two very close friends you can unburden with, in a reciprocal manner when needed, and no further.

The diary is a good idea. Write it down today, see if you still feel the same way tomorrow. If so, then talk with someone about it.

A quick look around the Internet can be helpful if you need more information about a situation. Chances are someone has already shared their experience and will save you a lot of time, worry and troubling someone else. Especially if it involves one of those "home truths" that were left out by well-meaning friends or relatives.

A paper diary is a dangerous thing though- some the things I think to myself, if I wrote them down and somebody found them???!!NO thanks!
I would never read any one else's diary and I trust my husband, but we live in a shared flat and when my mother visits, she is very nosey!
So I have a file on my laptop, password protected where I write odd thoughts and event down. I never read them.....it's too weird for me!
I write letters to people if I'm upset, I write letters to people who maybe aren't around any more when I miss them.
I wouldn't let any one else see these, let alone discuss it with any one except my husband. Poor man gets everything dumped on him, and likewise I share his concerns with him. I think that open element to our relationship is what makes it strong. Still, I wouldn't let him read my collection of letters and odd thoughts, I've got to have something all to myself, or we would be the same person!!

I agree. I'd never write a diary on paper. If there's something I think is worth remembering later, I either write a journal or a Post article.
My secret thoughts are mine, to share with nobody.