Our emotions are biologically useful responses to our environment and for our well-being. They help us adapt to varying situations and to motivate us to take action. However, when our emotions become excessive they can interfere with our ability to take part in our daily activities, cause physiological difficulties (for example: stomach issues, headaches, etc.), and obstruct our ability to think clearly and make reasoned decisions.
Depression
Everyone experiences sadness but sometimes, as a result of negative life events and/or an imbalance of brain chemistry, that sadness turns into depression. A depressive disorder can be debilitating and have drastic effects on a person’s daily life. Some of the symptoms can include: being in a depressed mood for most of the day; losing interest in pleasurable activities; changes in appetite and weight; changes in sleep pattern; low energy most days; feelings of guilt or worthlessness; agitation; inability to concentrate and/or recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
Anxiety, Stress and Fear
Anxiety and Stress can help us focus and increase our ability to perform. But when the anxiety and stress turns into out-of-control panic and fears the effects can be crippling. An anxiety disorder is a serious problem that involves excessive worry, anxiety and/or fear that can result in restlessness, fatigue, difficulties concentrating, irritability, muscle fatigue and sleep disturbance as well as avoidance of various activities.
