What does it mean to be emotionally unstable?

Emotional instability is a term used to describe intense, unpredictable, and rapid changes in mood. Anyone can experience emotional instability, especially in times of increased stress. But when it’s severe and enduring, it could be a sign of an underlying mental health condition. If you’re having ongoing trouble regulating your emotions, you might consider seeking professional help. A therapist can help you understand what’s causing your emotional instability and provide the support you need to manage your mental health.

A note on terminology: Throughout this article, we’ll be exploring the experience of emotional instability and how it might intersect with mental health. However, we want to mention that labeling someone as “emotionally unstable” can be offensive and stigmatizing for several reasons. In the past, emotional instability was associated with gendered psychological concepts, like hysteria. As far back as Ancient Greece, women’s emotions were pathologized if they didn’t fit the mold of societal norms and expectations. Throughout history, it was widely accepted that women’s suffering, no matter the cause, was “all in their heads,” and the legacy of that harmful assertion is alive and well today. 

So, as we discuss the concept of emotional instability, we want to be very clear about what it is not. A person is not “emotionally unstable” if they express strong emotions or have an intense emotional response to a difficult situation. Please remember that if someone is uncomfortable with your emotions, it doesn’t automatically mean there’s something wrong with you or how you’re feeling. 

What are some signs of emotional instability?

Emotional instability can come in many forms, depending on the person. Behaviors like road rage, snapping at a loved one, or breaking objects due to anger can all signal emotional instability. But some of the most common signs of emotional instability include:

• Rapid, severe mood swings
• Trouble identifying emotions
• Difficulty regulating emotions
• Increased sensitivity to emotional triggers

Is emotional instability a mental health condition?

On its own, emotional stability is not a mental health condition. You cannot be diagnosed with emotional instability, and it’s something almost anyone can experience. However, when it’s severe and chronic, it could be cause for concern. Ongoing emotional instability can make it difficult to work, attend school, care for yourself, and maintain healthy relationships. It can also point to the presence of an underlying mental health condition.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illness (DSM-V), several mental health conditions can cause emotional instability, including:

• Cyclothymic disorder
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)* and other personality disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Eating disorders (EDs)
• Substance use disorders (SUDs)
• Schizophrenia
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

*Emotional instability is perhaps most strongly associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD is sometimes referred to as “emotionally unstable personality disorder” because emotional instability must be present to be diagnosed with the condition. 

Why else might you experience emotional instability?

In addition to the mental health conditions listed above, there are many other reasons a person might experience emotional instability. Your ability to regulate your emotions can be impacted by your environment, physical health, and lifestyle. Experiencing trauma or chronic stress, living with certain health conditions or hormonal changes, or using substances are all factors that can affect emotional stability.

What are the effects of being emotionally unstable?

Left untreated, clinically significant emotional instability can take a damaging toll on a person’s well-being and quality of life. Losing control of your emotions can lead to increased impulsivity and negatively affect how you see yourself and others. It can also make it difficult to sustain healthy relationships and may, in severe cases, increase your risk of self-harm and suicidality*. 

*A note on safety: If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.

Finding support for emotional instability 

If you’re having trouble managing your emotions on your own, know that you’re not alone. A therapist can listen to your concerns, provide an evaluation, and determine if your emotional challenges are the result of an underlying mental health condition. From there, they can make personalized recommendations about the best treatment for your needs. This might include therapy — like dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) — self-care, and medication (if needed).

While not a replacement for professional help, there are also some individual strategies you can use to help you overcome emotional instability. For example, you can try:

• Increasing resilience: Taking care of your body, practicing gratitude, and building your support system can all increase your ability to bounce back from emotional challenges.
• Managing stress: Try to make stress management a part of your daily routine. This might include exercising, prioritizing sleep, spending time with friends, or any activity that alleviates stress.
• Building community: Research shows that having strong bonds with friends and loved ones can positively affect your emotional and physical health. To expand your community, consider volunteering, taking a class, or joining a support group.
• Practicing mindfulness: Mindfulness is all about slowing down and sensing what’s happening in your mind, body, and environment. It encourages you to notice whatever comes up without judging your emotions or experiences.

Find care with Rula

Everyone has intense emotions once in a while. We all have days when we have to face challenges that tax our ability to self-regulate. But if you’re living with chronic emotional instability and can’t seem to stabilize your mood on your own, it could be cause for concern. Sometimes, emotional instability is a sign of an underlying mental health condition, which may require professional help to manage. 

Fortunately, with help from Rula, you can access support for emotional instability or other mental health concerns starting today. Using our therapist-matching program, you can explore our extensive network of over 10,000 providers and find the right provider for your needs. No matter the issue you’re facing, we can help you find accessible, affordable mental healthcare in just a few clicks.

Find support with Rula