Weekly Prompt #16: What are some of the emotions that you find most difficult to regulate?
Hello everyone, I hope everyone is having a good week.
In the last week, we discussed- How has your culture or upbringing influenced your approach to emotion regulation? If you haven't checked yet, please click here to add your thoughts.
Based on the discussion there, I realized that emotion regulation is something that is not openly discussed or learned due to various factors in play. But as a consequence of it, we experience a harder time regulating our emotions because we have no clue how to channel them. So, I want to extend this week's discussion towards it a bit more.
This week's prompt is: What are some of the emotions that you find most difficult to regulate? Why do you think that is?
While there are many factors in play that how emotions are expressed and managed, it is important to find a balance that works for us individually. Please remember, it is okay to feel and express our emotions, and seeking support when we need it is a sign of strength. Let's discuss together and learn from each other.
Join us in the 24/7 General Support Group Chat to share and support each other.
@ASilentObserver
anger
@purpleTree4652 agree. Hurt and anger can sometimes take over and get the best of us.
@purpleTree4652 Anger can be such a powerful yet difficult emotion to regulate. What do you find most challenging about managing your anger?
@ASilentObserver
Hi, ASO,
I don't know how to react. I grew up in a home where anger ran rampant. So, I don't know how to respond. I can keep my anger under control, but I don't know how to respond, what to say, what I am supposed to be feeling.
@ASilentObserver Self Loathing if that can be considered an Emotion.
@OnlyDarkness Self loathing can be an incredibly painful emotion to experience. What about your self loathing causes you the most anguish? You are not alone in struggling with difficult feelings.
@ASilentObserver
"What are some of the emotions that you find most difficult to regulate? "
Anger, Anxiety, self loathing (rare), resentment
Anger is the biggest though.
"Why do you think that is?"
The six million dollar question. I will say it is easy to be anger at something or someone than to take time and energy to relate or bond with.
It is also a way to keep safe. Because most people would not like what is inside me. So I would say that Protection and Simplifying my life. if there isn't anyone beyond my spouse, I don't have to manage anything. But also one would say I wouldn't have to deal with the underlining issue(s)
@Barltik2065 It sounds like managing difficult emotions can be an ongoing challenge. Thank you for sharing your experiences with empathy and wisdom.
What are some of the emotions that you find most difficult to regulate? Why do you think that is?.
My two biggest are Anger and Anxiety. I used to just blow up when I was angry and every one around me would suffer. After many years, I am now at a point where I don't say anything, bury it, and let it stew inside me. I went from one extreme to the other and I'm working on finding a happy medium that works for me.
With anxiety, I tend to worry about the little things all the time. Everyone around me tells me what I worry about is insignificant and doesn't matter.....I am a firm believer that if you take care of the little things, pay attention to the small details, the big stuff will fall into place and all will be ok....I like to plan ahead and use prevention methods for what I think may disrupt my world....I understand that life is life, nothing is perfect, and things are going to happen no matter what, but sometimes I worry too much about the small stuff....I am jealous of the people who go through life with that lackadaisical attitude and nothing seems to bother them, because no matter how hard I try, I can't do it....I its just not me....
@CyclingThroughLife It sounds like you have developed a deeper understanding of yourself over the years. What have you learned about yourself in managing difficult emotions that has been most helpful? You deserve to feel heard and supported
@ASilentObserver
What have you learned about yourself in managing difficult emotions that has been most helpful?
I have learned over the years, that if I try my hardest to just keep the anger, anxiety, sadness, or whatever else it is buried inside of me, don't lash out or show that emotion, until the initial feeling eventually goes away, I can move on.....if that makes any sense. I've learned to kinda pick and chose which battles are worth my time and emotion and which ones aren't. If they aren't worth my time and emotion, I bury what I'm feeling and time "heals" all, if you know what I mean.....I'm sure its not the right thing to do but it is how I handle 99% of any emotion that isn't joy or happiness.....
@ASilentObserver what a question this site has my wheels turning already. The feeling of being too nice. Oversharing. Over talking. Giving more than anyone is capable of giving back but by the time you've come to this realization you cup is empty.
@pluckyKiwi5502 It sounds like you have given so much of yourself to others that you feel depleted. What emotions come up for you as you reflect on this realization? I can feel your caring heart through your words.
@ASilentObserver Oooh the irony but being alone although I'm an Thirty-two year old only child woof
@ASilentObserver
Frustration is often the hardest, it quickly turns to anger.
@charmingEagle47 I can understand how frustration builds up like that. What emotions are you most aware of right now as the anger emerges? You are not alone in feeling this way.
ok ;)
Anxiety! And despair
@jitterbugz7 I understand how anxiety and despair can be difficult. What emotions are most prominent for you at this moment? You are not alone in experiencing difficult feelings. We are all here with you to listen to and support.
@ASilentObserver Anxiety and despair!
