Why Do People Shut Down Emotionally?

Therapist Pages Mental Health Blog Magazine

This is the TherapistPages dot com Podcast! Today we will be exploring why someone can shut down when they are upset and some reasons behind this behavior. Let's dive in!Many people suffer from shutting down emotionally when they are upset.There is no one cause of this behavior. It could be a self-defense mechanism, it could be an inability to process negative feelings, and it could be due to dissociation.These are just a few reasons why someone may experience emotional shutdown when they are upset.The truth is, the best way to understand your behavior is to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy. However, learning about your behavior is a great step into figuring out your reactions, and finding a balance in your life.In this article, we will explain some reasons why people shut down when they are upset, and ways to solve this issue.Why Do People Shut Down Emotionally?Shutting down emotionally when overwhelmed is a common response.
It occurs when a person is unable to process the intense emotions they are experiencing. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as past traumas, stress, or anxiety. Emotional shutdowns can also be a sign of a deeper issue that needs to be addressed.Emotional Shutdown As A Self Defense Mechanism When you are feeling overwhelmed by emotion, or experiencing intense stress, there are two things that happen.First, your body experiences a change in blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and other vital signs. Second, your brain releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.These hormones help prepare you for action. However, these hormones can also make you feel more tired, anxious, and stressed.When you experience a lot of stress, your body responds by releasing excess amounts of cortisol and adrenaline.If you overreact to these hormones, your body may become exhausted and shut down.
For example, if you wake up early on a weekend morning and go straight to work without eating breakfast, you might become very hungry later on.Your body reacts by producing cortisol and adrenaline. You may not even realize how much energy you have until you start working. In addition, you may feel exhausted and need to take naps during the day. For more great mental health articles and insights visit us at Therapist Pages