Which term describes the release of strong feelings about past or present experiences?

The term "catharsis" specifically refers to the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from strong or repressed emotions. It stems from the Greek word "katharsis," which means "cleansing" or "purification." In therapeutic contexts, catharsis involves expressing emotions that may be pent-up due to past or ongoing experiences, allowing individuals to confront and process these feelings in a healthy manner. This emotional release is seen as beneficial for psychological well-being, as it can lead to greater self-awareness and emotional balance.

While the other terms also describe aspects of dealing with emotions, they do not capture the same depth and specificity as catharsis. "Emotional release" might imply a general letting go of feelings, but it does not inherently denote a therapeutic process. "Psychological relief" is a broader term that encompasses various means of achieving comfort from psychological distress, while "expression therapy" relates more to the methods used to convey feelings rather than the intense emotional release that catharsis identifies.