Being emotionally regulated is important for our mental well-being. However, there are times when we are so concerned about controlling our emotions that it can leave us feeling overwhelmed. “Overregulation in emotional health or habits involves excessive or rigid control over your emotions, which is often detrimental to personal well-being and relationships. It is important to note that emotional regulation is generally positive and essential for mental well-being. However, overregulation becomes problematic when it results in an inability to adapt, connect authentically with others, or experience the full spectrum of emotions,” wrote therapist Isra Nasir.
Also read: How to control excessive emotions: Therapist suggests a somatic practice
The expert further added, “Striking a balance by allowing authentic emotional expression while maintaining healthy coping mechanisms is important for emotional well-being.”
Signs that we are emotionally over-regulated
constant repression: We constantly deny the way we feel – whether it’s anger or sadness or frustration. We constantly try to pretend that we are happy and emotionally controlled.
fear of emotional incompleteness: We have a deep fear of making mistakes and appearing imperfect. The thought of being judged by others as imperfect makes us feel constantly anxious and stressed.
limited, rigid coping strategies: We always rely on a rigid set of coping mechanisms, which struggle to adapt to changing scenarios.
lack of playfulness: The idea of constant judgment can harden us – it robs us of the joy of being playful, creative and spontaneous. We struggle in the face of adversity and have difficulty coordinating other mechanisms to adapt.
harsh self-determination: We have a harsh inner critic within us, who constantly evaluates us for everything we do. This makes us lack self-confidence and we lose faith in our abilities.
difficulty returning: Emotionally highly regulated people have difficulties overcoming adversity and recovering from challenging situations.
