You're right ! don't repress them, instead learn to play with them. They're part of being human. They don't play by the rules. Make peace with yourself and you'll be able to tame them. They say they are the dark side of ourselves. yeah they are that's why you have to be strong, make that positive side of you stronger. How? Love yourself. If your situation now is taking away your worth then stay away from it by all means. If your past is haunting you.... no! you're not actually afraid of the past, you're afraid of it happening again. Live in the present and make sure that the past won't happen again. Know your worth, love yourself first before you love others. How will you love others if do not know how to love in the first place? The outside world is cruel and unfair. It's easier to make peace inside first before going outside. Create your happiness. Choose it wisely.