Feeling frustrated
Blocked from something you want or need, sometimes again and again.
If this feeling is heavy right now, you don’t have to hold it alone. Free support is available.
Where it sits on the wheel
Frustrated is in the middle ring, under Angry. Further out: irritated, impatient and fed up.
A gentle prompt
What were you hoping would happen? Write it plainly, without needing to fix anything.
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Something that might help right now
A slow breathing guide. Some people find a longer breath out helps them feel a little steadier.
Small things some people find helpful
- Give yourself a moment before you react: count to ten, or take a few slow breaths. Source: NHS, Get help with anger
- Step away, and come back to it after a short walk. Source: NHS, Get help with anger
- Write down exactly what’s in the way. Seeing it on paper can make a smaller next step easier to spot.
- Try it a different way, or break off a smaller piece to do first.
Feelings near frustrated
Angry (one ring in)
Frustrated is anger at being blocked from something you want or need.
Resentful (also under Angry)
Frustrated is about something in your way now; resentful is about something unfair that already happened.
Let down (also under Angry)
Frustrated is about being blocked; let down is about hopes not being met.
Irritated (further out)
Irritated is milder than frustrated: small things that bother you and pile up.
Impatient (further out)
Impatient is frustration with waiting, wanting something to happen sooner.
Fed up (further out)
Fed up is frustration that has gone on so long your patience has run out.
About the feelings wheel
Frustrated is one of the 104 words on the Slow Days feelings wheel, and the list of feelings has them all. The wheel isn’t a test or a diagnosis.
If a feeling has been heavy for a while, or you don’t feel safe, please talk to someone you trust or reach out for free support. If you’re in danger, call your local emergency number.