Topics · Nicosia
Emotion regulation: when feelings take over
We all get angry, cry or react more strongly than we would like at times. When it happens often and leaves you in difficult situations, you can learn to handle it differently.
What emotion regulation means
Regulating your emotions does not mean not feeling, or hiding what you feel. It means understanding what is happening inside you, staying with a feeling without being swept away by it, and choosing how you respond.
It is a skill that can be learned. Some people pick it up as children at home. Others never had that chance, or are going through a period of so much pressure that the balance slips. Either way, it is something you can build.
Difficulty managing emotions is often linked to stress, tiredness, poor sleep, old hurts or a period of big changes. It does not mean you are a 'bad person'. It means something inside you needs attention and care.
Signs you might recognise
Some of these may sound familiar:
- angry outbursts that leave you feeling guilty afterwards
- feelings that rise very fast and take a long time to settle
- decisions or words in the heat of the moment
- frequent arguments at home, at work or in your relationship
- a sense that you are 'not yourself' when you are angry or stressed
- avoiding situations because you worry how you will react
How therapy can help
At Safe Space Psychology Center in Latsia we work with you to understand what sets off strong emotions, what thoughts come with them and what your body feels in that moment.
We then look together for ways to pause before you react, to calm down more easily and to say what you need without hurting yourself or others. Many people find that, over time, their relationships become calmer too.
We work in individual sessions and, when it helps, in couples or family sessions.
For parents of children and teenagers
Children learn to calm down with the help of the adults around them. Big outbursts at a young age are often part of normal development. If they last a long time, are very intense or affect school and friendships, though, it is worth talking to a psychologist.
We work with the child or teenager and with you as parents, so that you know how to support them during an outburst and afterwards.
Your first session and staying safe
In the first meeting you tell us when and how you lose your balance and what you would like to change. Sessions take place in person or online, privately or through GeSY where it applies, in Greek, English or Romanian.
If you feel you might harm yourself or someone else, or if anyone at home is in danger, call 112 straight away or go to the A&E department (ΤΑΕΠ) of the nearest hospital.
Frequently asked questions
Can I really change the way I react?
Many people see changes when they work on it. The way we react is largely a habit, and habits change gradually with practice and support.
Is my anger a problem?
Anger on its own is a normal emotion. It becomes a problem when it leads you to say or do things that hurt you or other people.
My child has frequent outbursts. What should I do?
You can first book an appointment just for you as parents. We will talk about what you are noticing and whether it would help for us to see your child as well.
Are sessions available online?
Yes. You can have sessions online over a secure video connection, or in person at our centre in Latsia.
Other topics we work with
Sources and further reading
This page is for information only and does not replace an assessment by a psychologist or doctor.