As well as defining this concept, and looking into when emotional dysregulation becomes a problem, the study’s authors also explore how to process overwhelming emotions and keep them under control – and the tips are genuinely helpful. They include:

Making time for whatever you’re feeling, and dedicating a few minutes in a comfortable setting to just sit with whatever is going on
Noticing the physical sensations which come with the emotion you’re feeling
Attempting to give the emotion a name (it’s not always as easy as it sounds)
Reflecting on whether the emotion was a justified response to the situation you’re facing, or whether it’s coming from somewhere else
If it’s justified, ask yourself what the emotion is telling you, and what action you can take next. This could include showing yourself some self-compassion, or talking to someone about what you’re feeling
If the emotion isn’t justified, try and see if there’s a way you could reframe the situation you’re reacting to, or what you might say to a friend in that situation

Confronting your emotions isn’t easy, but dealing with your feelings in a healthy and productive way can have a massive impact on your mental health.

Emotional wellbeing: 6 easy methods to turn to when you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed