Complex emotions like anger, fear, trauma and grief are a natural part of life, but having all these feelings can be overwhelming. If you lack healthy coping outlets and forms of self-expression, you might become emotionally dysregulated, causing multiple mental and behavioral health issues.
Let’s explore some reasons you might be more emotional than usual, plus ways to remedy them.
1. Stress
Stress evolved as your body’s response to challenging situations, and some amount of stress can have a positive effect. However, chronic, ongoing stress and anxiety can take a toll on your health, leading to adverse outcomes like high blood pressure, headaches, digestive issues and emotional dysregulation.
Without a release valve for stress, you might become irritable, angry and frustrated enough to lash out at people without warning. Physical activity is one of the best ways to get your stress levels back under control. Try taking a walk around the block or something vigorous that can help you work your aggressions out, such as kickboxing.
2. Poor Nutritional Habits
If your go-to remedy for dealing with unwelcome emotions is to stop at a drive-through window, you are only making your problems worse in the long run. Our brains evolved to find sugary, high-calorie foods rewarding and comforting. However, “eating your feelings” increases your risk of obesity, which can make mood disorders worse.
Food and mood have a closer connection than you may realize. You can use this fact to your advantage by choosing more whole, fresh ingredients instead of processed convenience foods. Making more thoughtful dietary decisions can help you manage your emotional health.
3. Lack of Sleep
Many Americans are chronically sleep-deprived. If your routine doesn’t allow you to get at least seven to nine hours of restful sleep per night, you are not giving your body the time it needs to restore itself. As a result, you might have a harder time making good decisions, solving problems, and keeping your emotions on an even keel.
If you struggle with insomnia, try these proven tips for improving your sleep hygiene:
- Turn off all electronic devices – including your phone – at least one hour before going to bed.
- Do not drink caffeine or alcohol in the evening.
- Make your bedroom a relaxing environment. Set the temperature a few degrees cooler, keep the lights dim and do not allow any outside noise or distractions.
4. Depression
Sadness, anger and apathy can be natural reactions to life’s challenges. But if you consistently feel unhappy, unmotivated and fatigued to a point that it interferes with your daily activities, you might want to schedule a depression screening with your doctor. With a combination of therapy, antidepressants and lifestyle changes, you can start improving your outlook.
Managing Emotional Ups and Downs
Amend Wellness has created a sanctuary from daily stressors. Your exclusive healing getaway at our wellness retreat starts with stabilization. In this initial phase, our clinicians will work with identify your emotional challenges, taper or optimize existing medications and prepare for the restorative experience that awaits you.
Through a restored and confident spirit, clients complete their stay at Amend Wellness feeling emotionally, spiritually and physically rejuvenated. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you heal.