It’s normal for our moods to fluctuate. Throughout the day, different situations can trigger changes in our emotional states. However, we refer to ongoing and frequent emotional dysregulation, which is a difficulty in managing and controlling emotions. This results in intense and disproportionate emotional reactions, often disrupting the most important people and aspects of our lives. Emotion dysregulation can lead to frequent mood swings, impulsivity, and challenges in interpersonal relationships, commonly associated with mental health conditions and mood disorders. If you’re struggling with sudden mood swings, our dedicated psychologists are here to help you effectively manage symptoms so you can enjoy life’s most important moments.
While emotions naturally play a role in our lives and can serve as protective mechanisms, when emotions become disproportionately intense or erratic, it may indicate an underlying mental health concern. Seeking professional guidance from a psychologist or psychiatrist can provide valuable insights and support in addressing these emotional challenges and any associated mental health conditions.
Mood swings can be associated with a range of emotions, including:
A rapid shift in mood can vary widely among individuals, and their causes can be complex, often involving a combination of psychological, biological, and environmental factors. It is recommended to reach out to a psychologist with experience in emotion dysregulation to explore a suitable plan to manage symptoms.
Here are some ways that mood swings can impact your behaviour:
Here are some ways that mood swings can impact your thinking:
Here are some ways that mood swings can impact you feel:
Can an exaggerated emotional response be a sign of underlying mental health issues?
It is typically the case that persistent experiences of disproportionate emotional responses can serve as an indicator of underlying mental health issues. It’s important to note that emotional responses can vary widely among individuals, and a mental health professional can help assess and diagnose any potential issues. The following conditions may be associated with abnormal emotional responses:
We understand that seeking support for emotional difficulties or dysregulation can be challenging due to various factors, including the stigma associated with mental health, a fear of vulnerability, and uncertainty about available resources or who to speak to first. Some individuals may also normalise their emotional struggles or be unsure how to initiate discussions about their feelings. Psychologists are a good source of support who can provide valuable strategies and support to better understand and manage symptoms of emotion dysregulation and associated mood swings and behaviours.
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our experienced Melbourne psychologists have a special interest in emotion dysregulation and guiding individuals through management of emotions using evidence-based approaches including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy.
In the journey towards emotional well-being, remember that reaching out for support is a courageous step, and at Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we’re here to walk this path with you, offering guidance and understanding every step of the way.
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we offer flexible appointments with our psychologists during the day, evening, or weekends, both in-person at our Melbourne psychology practice or online via telehealth.
Our team of psychologists hold full registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and adhere to ethical guidelines as mandated by the Psychologists Registration Board and the Australian Psychological Society. Our clinical practice is grounded in evidence-based treatment approaches, ensuring comprehensive support for emotional dysregulation and mood swings.