Why Am I So Emotional: 6 Reasons You Feel This Way

Putting it simply, emotions can be intense. There will be times in life when you feel like you're in the midst of emotional turmoil, but you may not know why. This is natural yet may make you feel alone.

Maybe you're frustrated, anxious, or depressed right now. Perhaps you find yourself feeling upbeat and cheerful without a clear explanation. Confusing emotions, even pleasant ones, can make us wonder if something is too wonderful to be true.

Sometimes it's OK to just feel something without being able to put a name to it. On the other hand, sometimes the answers are staring us in the face, and it helps to take stock of your current situation.

Keep reading to find out six potential explanations for your current state of mind and suggestions for dealing with it.

Good Stress

It may not be shocking to hear that emotional intensity increases under stress. Common causes of stress, however, often go unrecognized. It's understandable, for instance, that upheavals like relocating, changing careers, or having a child can trigger feelings of anger, anxiety, and depression.

These stressors are typically seen negatively, so it's not shocking that they elicit difficult emotions.

Even 'Good Stress' Can Cause Complex Emotions

The fact that positive stress may also bring on negative emotions like anger, anxiety, and depression is something that is rarely discussed. You may be asking what, if any, stress is beneficial. This is a valid inquiry. Major professional achievements, such as a promotion or the acquisition of money for a project you're passionate about, can be a source of both positive and negative stress.

No matter how excited you are about your forthcoming nuptials, the process of being engaged and arranging a wedding can be incredibly stressful. The stress that comes with buying a home, a major symbol of achievement in our culture, is often underestimated. 

When stress is associated with a desirable outcome, it is normal for some people to minimize its impact. While it's crucial to recognize the role that privilege plays in some of life's most memorable experiences, it's just as crucial to allow yourself to fully feel those times.

Financial Problems

Financial insecurity is a major source of stress, and it can be difficult to alleviate this anxiety. When dealing with a dearth of finances, it can be tempting to put off making any financial decisions at all costs. Evaluate the factors that may be within your control, such as your ability to negotiate a payment deferral or your eligibility for state-funded forms of aid.

You might also contact a social worker or a local non-profit organization for assistance in locating local resources.

Lastly, make an effort to connect with the locals. Many of us have been financially pushed to our limits, but it's embarrassing to admit it in polite company. A strong community may do great things. 

Relationship Issues

I want to have a conversation about love. Emotional upheaval can be caused by both falling in love and breaking up. Despite the positive connotations frequently attached to falling in love, it can also trigger negative feelings. Feelings and emotional experiences vary from person to person and from one individual's tale to the next.

For those who have had bad luck in love before, it might be difficult to put themselves out there. It can be quite traumatic to end a relationship. However, divorce is still a very stressful life event, even if it is something you want and know will be good for you in the long run.

Burnout

Anger, despair, and even terror can all stem from a lack of energy and interest. Burnout has reached epidemic proportions since the pandemic's inception and the emergence of the work-from-home trend.

You can avoid burnout by taking time off when you need it, filling your time with activities that make you happy, and establishing limits on your workload. In addition, you should strive to pinpoint the main sources of your stress. Symptom relief is critical, but you also need to focus on finding and fixing whatever is causing your pain.

Family Turmoil

One of the first places we may encounter difficult emotions is in our families. It is totally normal for your family life to be a source of confusing emotions, whether due to childhood trauma, tense relationships with family members, or high expectations from your parents.

Recognizing your triggers is a good first step. Do the holidays make you anxious? Is it always rough on your birthday?