Published on 12, July, 2020
Example 1: At my last psych appointment the pdoc said I looked happy. I didn't think I was.
Example 2: Was recently seen at main hospital emergency department because of chest pains. Tests were ok, but BP was higher than normal . Had to go for follow up the next day . Doctor said it had been raised because I was anxious. Apparently my pulse rate was fast. I hadn't noticed I was anxious.
I don't think it happens all the time ie I sometimes know when I'm anxious etc .
Hi Firemonkey. I have a HUGE problem recognising my emotions until I reach overload state. And I also feel emotions on a sort of delayed reaction. So I can deal with something quite extreme going on and appear calm and in control, but it hits me later.
When my emotions DO kick in I often go overboard, quite a while after the actual event or insult. I am working on this at present. Identifying emotions, where they belong on a scale or wheel of intensity, then identifying what my actual feelings are.
I’m the opposite of you though in that I can be really happy, then some stranger says “Cheer up, it may never happen!” I just respond “It already has!” mainly to stop the conversation.
My dad has a delayed emotional reaction as you mention above. Holds it together at the time and is very practically minded(knows what practical steps to take) then has an emotional 'wobble' a while after the situation has resolved.
Interesting if the stressor is social (issues with boss) the same can not be said and this has kicked his anxiety into high gear.