How do you tell people what you're feeling?

Hello, I have immense difficulty articulating what I feel out loud. When I'm writing, I can tell you just fine (e.g. I'm lonely because my friend doesn't want to talk to me) but in real time my brain just checks out and I forget what certain emotions feel like.

For example, once someone asked me if I was anxious and I just sat there stuttering and ended up asking what anxiety felt like. Same goes for romantic attraction, sadness, anger, etc.

Another thing is evaluative questions. If you ask me something like "what is the distinction between sci-fi and fantasy" or another factual question I can tell you straight off, no problem.

But, if I'm asked "what are your strengths" or "why do you like writing?" (A question requiring a subjective or evaluative answer) I just CAN'T my mind leaves me.

Does anyone know why this happens, and/or a way to fix it?

I don't know how to fix it, but can relate to what you have written.

Soup

I've gotten a little better at this through practice. My nervousness came from me thinking everyone would judge me. Eventually I just told myself that others need to hear how I feel. Just start telling everyone it'll be a stumble at first that's normal but eventually you get really good at it. Make sure you talk to people who care though or will at least listen. Ignore those who put you down cus it doesn't help. Come back or msg if you need help as well .