List of Emotions

A categorized reference for recognizing and naming what you feel

AnxietyInfo SheetFree ResourceLast reviewed April 2026

List of Emotions

A categorized reference for recognizing and naming what you feel

Emotional granularity, the ability to make fine-grained distinctions between feelings, is one of the strongest predictors of effective emotion regulation (Barrett, 2017; Kalokerinos et al., 2019). Neuroimaging research shows that simply putting feelings into words decreases amygdala activation and increases prefrontal cortex engagement, effectively turning down the volume on intense emotions (Lieberman et al., 2007). Use this list to identify and name what you are feeling. Circle or check the emotions that resonate with your current experience.

Happy / Joyful

  • Happy
  • Joyful
  • Content
  • Satisfied
  • Cheerful
  • Excited
  • Eager
  • Enthusiastic
  • Energized
  • Proud
  • Confident
  • Grateful
  • Thankful
  • Inspired
  • Hopeful
  • Optimistic
  • Peaceful
  • Calm
  • Relaxed
  • Amused
  • Playful
  • Loved
  • Valued
  • Accepted

Sad / Down

  • Sad
  • Unhappy
  • Grieving
  • Heartbroken
  • Melancholy
  • Lonely
  • Isolated
  • Abandoned
  • Excluded
  • Hopeless
  • Helpless
  • Defeated
  • Disappointed
  • Let down
  • Discouraged
  • Bored
  • Apathetic
  • Empty
  • Numb
  • Homesick
  • Nostalgic

Angry / Frustrated

  • Angry
  • Furious
  • Enraged
  • Irritated
  • Annoyed
  • Frustrated
  • Exasperated
  • Impatient
  • Resentful
  • Bitter
  • Hostile
  • Disgusted
  • Contemptuous
  • Jealous
  • Envious
  • Betrayed
  • Violated

Scared / Anxious

  • Anxious
  • Worried
  • Nervous
  • Fearful
  • Scared
  • Terrified
  • Panicked
  • Overwhelmed
  • Stressed
  • Pressured
  • On edge
  • Apprehensive
  • Insecure
  • Vulnerable
  • Uncertain
  • Uneasy
  • Dread

Shame / Guilt

  • Ashamed
  • Humiliated
  • Embarrassed
  • Self-conscious
  • Guilty
  • Regretful
  • Remorseful
  • Inadequate
  • Worthless
  • Inferior
  • Exposed
  • Judged

Surprise / Confusion

  • Surprised
  • Shocked
  • Amazed
  • Astonished
  • Confused
  • Puzzled
  • Torn
  • Conflicted
  • Ambivalent
  • Curious
  • Skeptical
  • Suspicious

Common Questions

What is the List of Emotions worksheet?

, 2019). , 2007). Use this list to identify and name what you are feeling. Circle or check the emotions that resonate with your current experience.

How do I use the List of Emotions worksheet?

Read through this resource to learn key concepts. Share with your therapist or use as a study reference. You can print this sheet or bookmark it for quick access later.

Is the List of Emotions worksheet free?

Yes. Like every worksheet on Therapy Resource, it is free to read, print, and download as a PDF — no account required. A Pro subscription adds online filling with saved progress, practice-branded PDF exports, and secure client sharing.

Who is the List of Emotions worksheet for?

It is designed for therapists and counselors doing anxiety work with clients, and for individuals using it for self-guided practice. Pro members can share it with clients through a private link — no client account needed.

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