Basics On How To Deal With Raw Emotions

By Kathleen Myers


We all have had to deal with various challenging situations in our lives at one time or the other. While it may be possible to sought out some of our problems fairly easily on our own, there are challenges that tend to be quite overwhelming and have the potential to drive us over the edge. In many of these cases we find ourselves at logger heads with the people we love the most and out raw emotions may end up putting a strain on these very valued relationships.

Psychologists often use the term emotional flooding to refer to a state of overwhelming emotions. These emotions tend to be overwhelming and come suddenly hence the use of a flooding metaphor. Although the feelings are usually mixed, one of them will predominate. This may be a feeling such as anger, anxiety, sadness or happiness. The predominant emotion often changes over time.

The triggers of deep emotions are varied. They include, for instance, the recalling of past events, the thought or present stressors and worrying about a difficult future. When one gets lost in these thoughts, they recreate traumatic experiences over and over a situation that only makes things worse. One needs to learn how to adapt on how to deflect such negative thoughts.

Controlled behaviour is arguably the most accessible tool that one can use when dealing with unpleasant emotions. Deep belly breathing has been shown to help with relaxation and minimization of psychological stress. The benefits of this kind of breathing come in small incremental steps. However, it is important to note that emotional flooding may recur thus its important to continue practising deep breathing on a regular basis.

Steps should be undertaken to identify the feelings involved. Acknowledging and accepting the feelings will start off the process of getting better. Without doing this, one will end up in a closed emotional loop in which the emotions are likely to feed on themselves and worsen the situation.

Social support is quite useful and helps one in coping with emotional challenges. The unfortunate thing is that many people are hesitant in sharing their problems until It is too late. It is important to open up to at least one confidant who will stand by you in spite of your difficulties. Examples of social support sources will include, for example, close friends, colleagues, relatives and even religious leaders.

Sometimes all that is required is for one to simply take a break. It is difficult to handle and feelings when you have so many other things going on. Taking stock of your emotions in a quiet place will help you forge the best way forward. In some cases, you will be surprised to discover that there is no reason to feel bad at all. While at it, try to focus on the positives in your life and a reason to smile instead of sinking into self pity.

Dealing with feelings such as shock, sadness, confusion and anger is not always easy. All these can lead to self destruction if not handled in the right manner. The most important thing is to remember what exactly it is that one is feeling before they can come up with solutions on how to deal with them. Asking for help from a trusted friend or colleague is show of strength rather than weakness.




About the Author: