Effective Ways to Deal with Emotional Dysregulation

Emotions are part of human nature. Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, happy, or frustrated,
depending upon the situation. We tend to expect these emotions on a regular basis. Expressing
emotions in an acceptable way is perfect. However, expressing emotional responses in a
volatile manner or failing to take control of your emotions and behavior is a sign of Emotional
Dysregulation. The persons facing emotional dysregulation disorder can lead to a lifetime
struggle resulting in an inability to work properly at job and school. It impacts their interpersonal
relationships also. If you are facing difficulty regulating emotions, then read this blog
completely.

What Do You Understand By Emotional Regulation?

Before we understand the concept of Emotional Dysregulation, let us first understand what
emotional regulation is.

As per the study, emotional regulation is a condition that encompasses both positive and
negative feelings and how we strengthen them. As per the study, the emotional regulation is
divided into five main dimensions:
 ● Recognizing emotions in other people
● Recognizing your own emotions
● The ability to calm yourself down (Arousal reduction)
● Ability to improve your Mood/Emotional generation
● Emotional reactivity

Managing the emotions is important. When the emotional regulation fails people says or
executes the things they later regret.

What is Emotional Dysregulation?

Emotional Dysregulation is a condition that makes it difficult for the individual to regulate their
emotions. People suffering from this condition often feel difficulty regulating emotions which lead
to significant mood swings, or the emotional lability. In short, the person suffering from this
condition often has trouble controlling their emotions and how they express these emotions.

Those with emotional Dysregulation might not easily recognize their emotions or feel guilty
about expressing their emotions. Their behavior is not socially acceptable. Emotional regulation
is a difficult task for them and they become impulsive.

Often, it is seen that emotional Dysregulation is a common feature of Adult ADHD and
children's ADHD. Individuals suffering from ADHD Emotional Dysregulation often have trouble
in making decisions. In simple terms, emotional Dysregulation is a core trait of ADHD.

Main Causes of Emotion Dysregulation

Experts believe that there are several things that lead to emotion dysregulation. While the exact
etiology may differ from person to person, the most common causes that contribute to the
development of this condition are:

1. Early Childhood Traumas: Early childhood traumas such as abuse, witnessing

violence, or neglect can disrupt the development of emotional skills. It will later on result
in behavioral Dysregulation in Children.

2. Traumatic Brain Injury: Your brain plays an important role in expressing emotions. The
research shows that traumatic brain injury will alter the way people respond to their
emotions.

3. Mental Health Disorders: Conditions like post-traumatic stress, borderline personality

disorder, extreme depression, and anxiety can lead to this condition.
 4. Chronic Invalidation: When the person's thoughts and feelings are neglected in the
early stage of life, it often leads to a chronic disorder that later on develops into this
condition.

5. People with neurodivergent: Persons whose brains develop and work differently than
normal people will face emotional Dysregulation.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Emotion Dysregulation?

The main symptoms of emotional Dysregulation are intense emotional states or emotional
meltdowns. These people face difficulty regulating emotions like fear, sadness, anger, and
happiness.

While the signs and symptoms might differ from person to person and the situation responsible
for triggering this condition, the most common signs and symptoms of emotion dysregulation
include:

● Self-harm or suicidal behaviours

● Severe depression
● Anxiety
● Feeling confused by emotions
● Decreased emotional awareness
● Interpersonal conflict
● Extreme perfectionism
● Feeling "numb" and ignoring responsibilities
● Impulsive behaviors, like binge eating or unsafe sex
● Trouble calming down
● Mood swings

Situations when the Emotional Dysregulation Disorder Becomes

Problematic

Individuals with emotional Dysregulation are unable to handle stressful situations. The severity
of emotional difficulties can disrupt the individual's personal, social, and professional life.
Situations when the emotional dysregulation disorder becomes problematic are:

● Violent behavior or aggression towards the animal, person or objects.

● Shouting, screaming, and yelling (verbal outbursts) in different situations.
● Facing trouble in maintaining social relationships, friendships, or emotional connections.
 ● Trouble in sleeping or holding the grudges for a longer period of time.
● Might have developmental disorders later on stage due to this condition.

Is Emotional Dysregulation Disorder a Mental Disorder?

No, it is not necessary that showing extreme emotional expression (violence) is a sign of a
mental disorder. However, the prolonged continuation of this condition might result in a mental
disorder at a later stage of life.

The list of common mental disorders that are commonly associated with the emotional
Dysregulation are:

● Bipolar disorder
● Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
● Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
● Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ( ADHD Emotional Dysregulation)
● Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (complex PTSD)

Main Strategies to Overcome the Emotional Dysregulation Disorder

As per the experts, there are four main strategies to overcome the emotional dysregulation
disorder. The individual can pick any of the strategies depending upon their condition and
circumstances. Let us have a quick look at both strategies one by one.

Medication

Proper medication can be the best treatment for dealing with a dysregulated mood. It includes
antidepressant pills. Several antidepressants are available on the market that have various
side effects. These antidepressants are prescribed by a certified doctor.

Therapy

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is the main treatment method for the emotional
dysregulation disorder. In this therapy, the skills to regulate your emotions are taught. The
individual learns the method to focus on your present movement and how to deal with the
stressful situations.

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) consists of five stages:

Initial sessions – Orientation and Commitment
Stage one – Behavioural Dysregulation
Stage two – Quiet Desperation
Stage Three – Ordinary Problem in Living
Stage Four – Freedom of Choice

Another useful therapy for emotional Dysregulation is Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).It is
a form of talk therapy where therapists/ psychologists treat your mental condition. The core
concept of CBT lies that thoughts, feelings, and actions are interconnected. By changing the
way you think in a positive manner will last change how you feel.

Self Help Strategies

There are plenty of strategies that can help you to develop emotional self-regulation. One of
the best ways is to identify the cause that triggers this condition and learn to reframe them in a
positive manner. Another way is to practice mindfulness, name your emotions or to build a
supportive network of trusted persons.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle and emotions are often interconnected. Making a few changes in the lifestyle of an
individual, like getting enough sleep, exercising daily, and practicing medication can help you
regulate your emotions. Also, limiting substance use can help you in coping with emotional
challenges.

Let's Recap

Whether it is you, your near one, or your child who struggles with emotional Dysregulation
needs immediate help. Emotional Dysregulation is a condition of underlying mental health
condition that needs the immediate attention of a mental health professional. With the right
treatment by a certified and experienced doctor/therapist/ psychotherapist, this condition can be
improved over time.

Also Read: ADHD in Children: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment