Dear reader,
I am going to tell you about a diagnosis that not many clinicians pay attention to but that is fundamental to understanding and managing most of a client's emotional issues. The diagnosis is Deficient Emotional Self Regulation (DESR). And it's important to pay attention to because emotions are an integral part of our daily lives. They shape our experiences, influence our decisions, and impact our overall well-being. And for some individuals, such as those diagnosed with ADHD who experience emotions more intensely than non-ADHD peers, managing and regulating emotions can be a significant challenge. While DESR isn't part of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5), so many big disorders have underlying DESR symptoms.
So What is DESR?
Deficient Emotional Self Regulation is the difficulty in managing and regulating our emotions. Individuals with DESR often experience intense and overwhelming emotions that are difficult to control. This can lead to impulsive behaviors, mood swings, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
What are the Symptoms of DESR?
Recognizing the symptoms of DESR is crucial for understanding and addressing this condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Difficulty calming down after experiencing strong emotions
- Quick and intense emotional reactions to minor triggers
- Impulsive behavior driven by emotions
- Difficulty shifting attention or focus
- Chronic irritability or mood swings
It is important to note that DESR is not a standalone diagnosis but rather a symptom that can be present in various mental health conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Causes of DESR
The exact causes of DESR are not yet fully understood. However, research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors may contribute to its development. Some potential causes include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Early childhood trauma or neglect
- Neurological differences in brain structure and function
- Exposure to chronic stress
Impacts of DESR?
- Interpersonal parenting stress and family conflict
- Social rejection
- Road rage, DUIs, and crash risks during driving
- Mediates and moderates impact of child maltreatment on later risk for alcohol problems
How Can We Manage DESR?
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing DESR, there are strategies that can help individuals improve their emotional self-regulation skills. These strategies may include:
- Therapy: Working with a mental health professional can provide valuable guidance and support in developing emotional regulation skills.
- Emotion-focused techniques: Learning and practicing techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding exercises can help individuals better manage their emotions.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage underlying conditions that contribute to DESR.
- Self-care: Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-care, such as exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating, can have a positive impact on emotional well-being.
Seeking Professional Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with DESR, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of the individual.
I provide personalised and creative emotion-focused techniques. Reach out today and see how I can help you.
Until my next post, keep well.
Drs. Amelie van den Brink-El Makkaoui
(Image credit: Esther E. Palacios-Barrios,Jamie L. Hanson, from paper 'Poverty and self-regulation: Connecting psychosocial processes, neurobiology, and the risk for psychopathology'. )