What is Emotional Dysregulation?

Emotional Dysregulation refers to difficulty in managing emotional responses appropriately. Individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation may have intense emotional reactions to minor situations, struggle to calm down, or find it hard to express emotions in a controlled manner. This can lead to frustration, impulsive behaviours, anxiety, or withdrawal from social interactions.

Emotional dysregulation can be associated with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It can also result from prolonged stress, trauma, or environmental factors such as inconsistent caregiving or exposure to conflict.

Signs of Emotional Dysregulation

Recognising the signs of emotional dysregulation is the first step in providing effective support. Common indicators include:

• Mood swings – sudden and intense shifts in emotions.

• Impulsive behaviour – acting without thinking, sometimes in harmful ways.

• Difficulty calming down – struggling to regain emotional balance after distress.

• Self-harm or substance misuse – using unhealthy coping mechanisms.

• Social difficulties – challenges in maintaining relationships due to emotional instability.

Causes and Triggers

Understanding what contributes to emotional dysregulation can help carers and professionals offer the right support. Common causes include:

• Neurobiological factors – differences in brain function affecting emotional control.

• Early experiences – trauma, neglect or inconsistent caregiving.

• Environmental stressors – high-pressure situations, bullying, or life changes.

• Underlying conditions – mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or ASD.

Strategies for Managing Emotional Dysregulation

Supporting individuals with emotional dysregulation requires structured approaches that build emotional resilience. Effective techniques include:

• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) – identifying triggers and using proactive strategies to prevent emotional crises.

• Emotional awareness – helping individuals recognise and name their emotions.

• Breathing and relaxation techniques – using mindfulness and deep breathing to manage overwhelming emotions.

• Sensory tools – incorporating weighted blankets, fidget toys, or movement breaks.

• Supportive communication – maintaining a calm, reassuring presence during emotional moments.

• Reflective practice – encouraging self-awareness and discussion about emotional experiences.

How SecuriCare Can Help

SecuriCare’s Managing Emotional Dysregulation course equips carers, educators and support staff with the tools needed to provide effective emotional regulation support. Developed in collaboration with Steven Davis, a qualified Mental Health Nurse, our training is tailored to the needs of each organisation and meets national quality standards and regulatory guidance.

Our course includes:

• Introduction to Emotional Dysregulation – Understanding emotional regulation challenges and their impact.

• Understanding Causes and Triggers – Identifying key factors contributing to emotional dysregulation.

• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) – Implementing proactive strategies to reduce emotional crises.

• Management Strategies – Practical interventions to de-escalate and regulate emotions.

• Tools for Regulation – Techniques such as mindfulness, sensory tools and self-regulation exercises.

• Reflective Practice – Encouraging continuous learning and improvement in emotional support.

Managing Emotional Dysregulation Train-the-Trainer Programme

For those looking to take their expertise further, SecuriCare offers a Train-the-Trainer Managing Emotional Dysregulation Course, allowing individuals to become Licensed SecuriCare Associate Trainers. This programme enables trainers to deliver in-house training with SecuriCare certification and includes:

• A one-day interactive workshop – Teaching trainers to effectively deliver the course.

• Access to a personalised online training platform – Supporting ongoing learning and development.

• Comprehensive teaching and learning resources – Providing all necessary materials to facilitate training.

• Certification upon completion – Recognising trainers as accredited SecuriCare Associate Trainers.

Why Choose SecuriCare?

Since 1995, SecuriCare has provided specialist training to help manage challenging behaviour in workplaces. Our courses are interactive, engaging, and designed to be practical, giving staff the confidence to support individuals effectively. SecuriCare is an ISO:9001 Certified Organisation and an Institute of Conflict Management Quality Award Centre, ensuring that our expert-led training meets the highest national standards.

To learn more about our Managing Emotional Dysregulation training, visit: 

https://youtu.be/5QkhUvmKtGA

www.securicare.com/training/emotional-dysregulation or contact us today.