Emotional pain is caused when we refuse to let go and surrender to life.
Life current is too strong for anyone to work against and it will always be to our own peril if we do so.
When next you find yourself not able to get through your uncomfortable emotions and pain of the past, consider that you may just be working in the wrong direction and life will cause you pain so that your only option will be to change course.
I cannot overemphasize on the need to let go and be in the moment; to focus on our highest ideals and ensure our day to day actions reflect it. Practise this daily and consistently and you will be fine.