I understand how difficult it is to make yourself vulnerable to your emotions. I am very much like you in that manner. I know the emotion is there, but I do not wish to let it roam free. This isn't the most healthy thing in the world, so I've learned to let my emotions out through music and art. Maybe you could try doing something creative to express your emotions, then you can take a step back, recognize what you are feeling, and let yourself feel them.