Emotional Disturbance
When I have a serious problem to deal with, and I am really upset about that problem, I can't think straight enough to manage well.
Worse, if the problem is long lasting or even permanent, like diabetes, I may get so used to being upset about it that I no longer "feel" the emotional impact. I get used to that as well. At some point I may not realize I am disturbed, because I can't "feel" it. Still, it affects me. Unconsciously I am still disturbed. Maybe I "act out" my no longer "felt" disturbance by getting into relationships that sour. Maybe I make commitments I know I am not going to keep. Maybe in some other way I disrupt my life or someone else's life. I'm disturbed. I'm not aware that I'm disturbed. But I sure do disturbed things.
When I realize I am upset I find it helpful to stop trying to deal with the problem. I'm not managing well and I may even be making things worse. Even when I am doing the right things about the problem, I may sabotage them because I am upset. At these times I just take a flight to Hawaii for 3 months of sun, beach, and luxury. Usually the problem has gone away or been taken care of by then. However, if you can't just run away at the drop of a hat, this exercise may be for you.
I find it helpful when upset to first get over being upset, then address the problem with a clear head. Don't worry, you're at the right place. We have help for you on this Web site.
When I am upset so long that I become unaware of my feelings, I find it helpful to get in touch with my unconscious disturbances first, get over them, then address my problems with uncluttered thinking. This may be a little tougher to do, but you can do it. We have help right here on this Web site.
Links on 24-7 Help:
- About Thinking
- Getting In Touch With Your Emotions
- Irrational Beliefs Guide
- Rational Emotive Imagery
- Being Disturbed About Being Disturbed
- Distinguishing Disturbed From Non-Disturbed Thinking
- It's So Awful I Can't Stand It
- Should It Be
- Homework
Links to other sites:
