What is Emotional Dysregulation?
Emotional Dysregulation (ED) is a mental health condition characterized by difficulty managing emotions in an adaptive and healthy way. People with Emotional Dysregulation often find it hard to respond adequately and appropriately to events, people or situations in their environment. This can lead to intense and prolonged emotional reactions, including irritability, anxiety, depression, shame and anger.
Emotional Dysregulation is often associated with trauma as well as certain mental health conditions such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is often observed in individuals who have experienced significant trauma or loss, particularly during childhood.
ED symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidality
- Anger and rage
- Guilt and shame
- Promiscuity
- Self-harm behaviors
- Substance abuse
- Extreme perfectionism
- Interpersonal conflict
- Disordered eating
- Risk-taking behaviors
Emotional Dysregulation Symptoms
Here are some of the symptoms a person with an emotional dysregulation condition may exhibit. The symptoms may vary from person to person and can mimic symptoms of other disorders, which can make ED more challenging to accurately diagnose.
This is one reason why people with ED find more intensive mental health treatment is far more helpful than the sort of monthly or weekly counseling sessions that may suffice for other conditions.
Following successful emotional dysregulation treatment at a higher level of care however, many people are able to maintain their progress and manage their condition well with only weekly or monthly therapy.
The effects of ED on daily life can vary greatly depending on the individual, but usually include difficulties in relationships, problems at school or work, difficulty managing emotions and stressors, difficulty functioning in social situations, and difficulty regulating impulsivity.
Fortunately, ED can be treated with a combination of therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused therapies (such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and psychopharmacology.
Emotional Dysregulation treatment at Reconnect programs is tailored to the individual needs of the client based on their unique set of circumstances.
Because the root causes of ED vary, the precise treatment may vary from person to person. It may also involve self-help strategies such as journaling, relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices. With the right treatment plan in place, individuals with ED can learn how to effectively manage their emotions in order to lead a happier, more satisfying life.
Reconnect programs are different. Here you will find emotional dysregulation treatment that is evidence-based and practical, but always delivered with warmth and compassion. The dedicated mental health professionals at Reconnect are invested in the long-term recovery of every person in our care.
The mission here is to not only provide relief during treatment, but to give people the knowledge, understanding and tools they need to continue to grow and progress after treatment. Under the leadership of renowned trauma specialist, Dr. Karol Darsa Psy.D. we provide intensive, transformational treatment for emotional dysregulation that is unlike the care you find at most mental health facilities.
Healing Begins When You Reconnect
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with any of these conditions, or shows symptoms, the team at Reconnect wants to help. Treatment for emotional dysregulation is more effective today than ever before.
The help you and your loved ones deserve is just a phone call away.
Contact us at: (310) 713-6739