Emotions are like a teenager-they’re always present and forever changing. They constantly waver, from meek to heightened, agreeable to unagreeable, anticipated to unforeseen. A mood is the general tone of emotion across a duration of time. Thus a “bad mood” is like a grumpy teenager throughout the day, whereas a particular emotion such as anger or anxiety is like a teenager yelling at their sibling for taking their diary.
Our emotions allow us to get our needs met and be heard by others in an esteemed way. Here are some ways:
Fear communicates “Watch out; there’s danger!” or “I find you threatening.”
Anger communicates “This isn’t fair or right, ” You’re trespassing on my territory,” or “I’m defending what’s mine.”
Sadness communicates “I’ve lost something important.”
Love communicates “I appreciate you,” and “I want you to stay close.”
During the support groups I attend each member is allowed to share how the day is going or the past week since we last met. When my turn comes I will start by saying, “My mood this week is…” I do a brief journal each day by writing down a number from 1-10 (10 great and 1 lousy) and coming up with a mood average.
When my dad carries up items from the basement on his own I will tell him, “Let us help you with that I don’t want you to fall (fear).” My dad has a history of falls and is 84 years old. Our goal is to keep him living in his home for as long as his health will endure. My fear is situational in this case rather than a mood.
When we interact with safe, caring people this communication is precious. If someone in a support group you attend or a friend sees you are afraid they may show compassion, kindness, and care. If they see you angry about something they may step aside and reflect on their position in the matter. This form of communication is imperfect. At times we send the wrong vibes or people mix up on how to interpret them.
This system works well.
Peace
Larry
(Information from this Blog is from the book, “Happy Trap” by Russ Harris)
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/