An insight into emotions

Emotions are complex psychological states that involve feelings, physiological responses, and behavioral reactions in response to people we interact with. Understanding our emotions can help us identify them in other people that improves our social interaction skills. In fact, the same emotion can be perceived and responded to differently by different individuals.
Being curious about our feelings helps us investigate its root cause.. By asking ourselves questions like “Why am I feeling this way?” or “What triggered this emotion?”, we engage with our emotional experiences more deeply.

 

Analysing situations of emotional outburst

Most people find it difficult to control situations of stress and uncertainty. They express extreme feelings when things do not take place the way they want. Let us consider a situation where two friends get into a conflict followed by a heated argument over a group project. The root of the conflict lies in one’s inability to accept the viewpoint of the other. Most people tend to get defensive as they feel their self respect is at stake. This leads to breaking away of valued relationships; it is only after the dust settles that they realise their mistake.

 

Strategies to manage emotions

Controlling emotions can be challenging, but some strategies might help. Acknowledging and labelling your emotions can be the first step toward managing them. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you stay grounded and respond rather than react. Reflecting on the triggers and patterns of your emotional responses can also provide insights into managing them more effectively. It is also beneficial to engage in activities that you find soothing or fulfilling, like exercise or hobbies, to help maintain emotional balance. Other strategies such as cognitive reframing, self-care, and setting healthy boundaries, can enhance our ability to handle emotions more effectively. While we may not be able to control every emotional response, these strategies empower us to navigate our feelings with greater resilience and understanding. It helps us develop the skills that can influence our emotional responses and maintain our emotional balance better. Further, when experiencing emotional conflicts certain chemicals rush to your brain that inspire extreme reactions and impulsive behaviours. Wait for at least 5 seconds for those chemicals to leave, close your eyes,then count up to five to see the method work.

 

Drawing the fine line

Managing emotions effectively leads to emotional well-being and happiness. This, however, is not a destination but a lifelong journey. By fostering open conversations about emotions, providing accessible mental health resources, and challenging societal norms that equate success with constant happiness, we can create a world where individuals feel empowered to embrace their full emotional range. Thus, hiding or suppressing our emotions to maintain a good mood is neither healthy nor sustainable. Emotional suppression can in fact, lead to a variety of physical and psychological problems, including anxiety, depression, and even physical illness.

It is therefore essential to embrace the full spectrum of human emotions. Experiencing negative emotions is a normal part of life. What matters is how we handle them. By acknowledging our feelings, seeking support when needed, and developing healthy coping mechanisms, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and authenticity.

 

About the authors

The article has been contributed by the following students from Our Lady Queen of the Missions School, Park Circus: Wafia Iqbal, Charita Mehta, Aaradhya Das and Fatema Tuz Johora.