For March Question Month Cilla Noir asks:
How do you handle your serious mood swings or when something just “sets you off”?
When you go from one end of the spectrum to another – sometimes justified, sometimes not.
Normally, when I was on my own, I would just throw a fit.
Being back in a D/s relationship – that is not acceptable behavior and it’s a hard thing to start overcoming.
I admit to sometimes being a drama queen in relation to my mood swings – not something I'm proud of – and being back into a D/s relationship I need to nip that in the bud ASAP.
Suggestions?
Advice?
Dealing with extreme mood swings is a challenge. It's not uncommon for people to let their emotions take control of their behavior but for the submissive constantly endeavoring to improve themselves this is not an option. Learning to diffuse your emotions is, in my opinion, a very important tool to have.
Like any stressful situation, a mood swing can be released in the same way. Follow the next few steps when you feel that your emotions are getting the better of you.
1. Breathe. When your emotions take control of your body you experience physical changes that help increase your reaction to the situation. Your pulse quickens, your temperature may go up and you take more shallow quick breaths. Stop for a moment and focus on your breathing. Feel your body relax and return to normal before moving on to the next step.
2. Take a time out. The reason you are upset will still be there so try to step away and calm yourself before thinking about what just set you off.
3. If you can't take a time out, count to ten. It seems childish at first, but once you realize the effects it has on your body and mind you won't take it for granted.
4. Write about it. Open up a journal and write about what has upset you. It doesn't have to make sense. Feel free to ramble, scribble and vent. No one will see this anyhow, it's just there to diffuse your dramatic behavior that would normally occur.
5. Investigate why you may be having such extreme mood swings. Some things that can cause mood swings are high levels of simple carbohydrates in your diet. Cut down on the white bread, processed foods and sugar. Exercise helps reduce stress which means you'd have a lower chance of flying off the handle. Sleep deprivation also increases your chances for mood swings.
Further Reading
How to Cope with Extreme Mood Swings
Deal With Your Own Mood Swings
