top of page

💥 Understanding Emotional Dysregulation: When Emotions Feel Too Big

Updated: May 27

Emotions are a normal part of life—but for some people, managing them can feel especially difficult. This is often due to a neurological difference known as emotional dysregulation.


Emotional dysregulation occurs when the brain has difficulty processing and regulating emotions. It can cause strong emotional reactions that feel sudden, overwhelming, or hard to control.


🧠 What’s Going On in the Brain?

The brain has complex connections that help process signals related to memory, emotion, and sensory input.


In emotional dysregulation, these signals may not be processed efficiently—leading to:

  • Low frustration tolerance

  • Mood swings or frequent emotional outbursts

  • Difficulty calming down once upset

  • Feeling emotionally overwhelmed by everyday situations


These experiences are not a choice or a behaviour problem—they are neurological responses that deserve understanding and support.


🔍 How Is Emotional Dysregulation Linked to Neurodivergence?


Emotional dysregulation is often associated with conditions like ADHD, Autism, and other neurodevelopmental differences. It also plays a role in experiences like:


  • Rejection Sensitivity

  • Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)


Understanding this connection can help families, educators, and professionals respond with greater empathy and more effective strategies.


📘 Learn More with NEST

If you or someone you support struggles with big emotions, you're not alone—and help is available.


We’re here to help you build understanding and find tools that support regulation and wellbeing.



A person with hand on chin looks pensive, sitting indoors. Another person gestures supportively. Warm lighting, cozy setting.



Comments


bottom of page