Emotional Dysregulation
“Why do I have so much trouble controlling
my emotions?”
For some, emotions can feel overwhelming—sudden, intense, and difficult to control. These aren’t just everyday frustrations or fleeting sadness; they’re powerful waves of negative feelings that arise often and linger.
Clinically, this is known as emotional dysregulation—a condition that can lead to impulsive behavior and strain both personal and professional relationships. It’s a deeply frustrating experience, and for those who struggle with it, finding relief can feel out of reach.
What Fuels Emotional Distress
Emotional dysregulation often stems from a complex interplay of biology and environment—a framework known as BioSocial theory.
On the biological side, some individuals are simply wired to be more emotionally sensitive. They may feel things more deeply or notice subtle emotional cues that others miss. This heightened sensitivity can make them more vulnerable to sudden emotional shifts and intense mood swings.
When these powerful emotions surge without effective coping mechanisms, they can lead to impulsive actions and overwhelming reactions to even minor triggers.
The Social Influence on Emotional Distress
The “social” aspect of the BioSocial model focuses on the environment we live in—our relationships, cultural norms, and societal expectations. Often, we’re taught to express certain emotions while suppressing others, shaping how we respond to our own feelings.
When the environment invalidates our emotions—by labeling them as overreactions or suggesting we “shouldn’t” feel a certain way—it can lead to confusion, shame, and emotional suppression. This can make it even harder to regulate intense feelings.
At the same time, if others consistently respond to emotional outbursts by giving in or offering rewards, we may unconsciously learn that extreme emotions are a way to get our needs met—reinforcing patterns that feel out of control.
Support for Emotional Regulation Challenges
✅ Emotions spiral out of control
✅ Loneliness
✅ Angry outbursts
✅ Rapid mood swings
✅ Loss of capacity to cope or reason in emotional situations
✅ Impulsive or reactive behavior
✅ Anxiety/Depression
✅ Trouble adapting to change
✅ Shame
✅ Self-harming behaviors
✅ Outsized reactions to minor issues
✅ Substance abuse
✅ Fear of abandonment
✅ Feeling empty
✅ Difficult relationships
✅ Lack of flexibility
✅ Trouble adapting to change
✅ Lack of sense of self
✅ Up and down extreme emotions
If you or someone you care about is struggling with difficulties in managing emotions, you're not alone—and help is available. One of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for emotional dysregulation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
CBT helps individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and learning practical coping strategies, CBT empowers people to respond to emotional challenges in healthier, more balanced ways.
Here are some common signs that may indicate emotional dysregulation:
We Can Help
If you or a love one is struggling with a Emotional Dysregulation,
we are here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a session with our CBT therapists.
