Image by Morgan Basham @mpbasham
HOW TO OVERCOME STRONG EMOTIONS
Strong emotions can sometimes drive us to act impulsively which could lead to regrets later. Here are some strategies to help you regulate and express the strong emotions appropriately.
FEAR
When fear arises, it is important to acknowledge and assess the perceived threat objectively. This may involve problem-solving to address the source of fear or practice relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
Seeking support from others or confronting feared situations gradually can also help build resilience and reduce fear’s impact on daily functioning.
SADNESS
Instead of suppressing sadness, it is important to honour and validate these feelings. Engaging in self-care activities, expressing emotions through creative outlets such as journaling or art, and seeking solace from supportive relationships can help facilitate emotional healing.
Sadness can also prompt us to reevaluate our priorities and cultivate gratitude for what remains.
ANGER
While anger can be intense, it’s important to express it constructively and assertively.
Our body feels anger as the adrenal glands release adrenaline in response to stress or perceived threats.
Movement of the body, such as running or jumping can help dispense the activated hormones to bring the body back to a calm state.
Healthy anger responses includes setting boundaries, communicating clearly instead of aggressively or channeling anger into productive outlets such as problem-solving or advocacy.
Engaging in relaxation or calming techniques or seeking support from trusted individuals can help tame the fire of anger.
ENVY
Instead of allowing envy to consumer us negatively, we can leverage on the emotions to reflect on our own goals and aspirations.
Envy can motivate us to set personal benchmarks and take steps towards achieving them. Channel envy constructively into more positive emotions, such as feeling inspired and creative, instead of allowing it to turn into destructive behaviour or resentment towards others.
GUILT
When experiencing guilt, it's essential to acknowledge and accept responsibility for our actions without succumbing to excessive self-blame or shame.
Engaging in sincere apologies, making amends, and committing to behavior change can help alleviate guilt and promote reconciliation and growth. Reflecting on the underlying reasons for guilt and learning from our mistakes can also contribute to personal development and ethical decision-making.
Image by Max van den Oetelaar @maxvdo
When you feel strong and intense emotions, take time out for yourself to process your emotions. Try to understand them or distract yourself with some self-care activities.
IT'S PERFECTLY OKAY TO SEEK HELP WHEN YOU'RE FINDING IT DIFFICULT TO COPE WITH YOUR EMOTIONS. REMEMBER, REACHING OUT IS A SIGN OF STRENGTH.
If you are in Singapore and need support, call the National Care Hotline at: 1800-202-6868 or refer to more resources at: https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/mindsg/seeking-support