Physical health strongly influences a young person’s ability to regulate their emotions and a range of other challenges in life. The following two elements, drawn from DBT and CBT respectively have useful information on how the factors that contribute to better physical health also serve to help people better regulate their emotions.
G5iii. Reducing physical vulnerability to overwhelming emotions
Health education is provided about the effects that diet, alcohol and other drugs, physical exercise, sleep and physical illness or pain can have on our emotions and ability to cope with emotional challenges.
Lack of knowledge or skills in relaxation may be an important factor contributing to poor emotion regulation for some individuals. Taking time out from a stressful situation and consciously engaging in relaxation can help break negative spirals of Thoughts, Emotions and Behavioural reactions.
