Understanding Emotional Disturbance: Insights from Ajwa Rabbani, CEO of Aligned Roots
Emotional disturbance is a condition that affects how individuals perceive and respond to the world around them. It can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, mood swings, or behavioural challenges, and often interferes with daily functioning and relationships. Ajwa Rabbani, CEO of Aligned Roots, believes that understanding the nature of emotional disturbances is crucial for managing and overcoming them effectively.
What is Emotional Disturbance?
Emotional disturbance is a broad term that encompasses a range of mental health issues characterised by an inability to regulate emotions or behaviours appropriately. It is not just about temporary stress or sadness; rather, it is a persistent state that impacts an individual’s quality of life.
According to Ajwa, “Emotional disturbances are often rooted in unresolved internal conflicts, past traumas, or imbalances in one’s emotional world. Recognising these disturbances and seeking help is the first step towards healing.”
Common Types of Emotional Disturbance
- Anxiety Disorders: Persistent worry or fear that interferes with daily activities.
- Mood Disorders: Conditions like depression or bipolar disorder that cause extreme emotional states.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Recurrent, unwanted thoughts and behaviours.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Severe anxiety triggered by past trauma.
- Personality Disorders: Patterns of behaviour that significantly deviate from societal norms.
Signs and Symptoms of Emotional Disturbance
Ajwa notes that emotional disturbances can vary widely in terms of symptoms and severity. Some common signs include:
- Chronic feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
- Extreme mood swings or irritability.
- Withdrawal from social interactions and activities.
- Sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
- Self-destructive behaviours or thoughts of self-harm.
Causes of Emotional Disturbance
There is no single cause of emotional disturbances. They are often the result of multiple factors, such as:
- Genetic Predisposition: Family history of mental health issues can increase susceptibility.
- Trauma and Abuse: Experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can lead to long-term emotional instability.
- Chronic Stress: Prolonged exposure to stress can overwhelm the emotional system, leading to disturbances.
- Neurological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemistry or functioning can contribute to emotional disorders.
Approaches to Managing Emotional Disturbance
Ajwa and her team at Aligned Roots advocate for a comprehensive approach to managing emotional disturbances, which includes:
Medication (If Necessary): In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms, especially when combined with therapy.
Therapeutic Intervention: Seeking support from a mental health professional can help identify and address the root causes of the disturbance. Therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches can be highly effective.
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly improve emotional stability. Ajwa recommends incorporating self-care practices such as meditation or journaling to manage stress.
Building a Support Network: Sharing one’s experiences with trusted friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional relief and reduce feelings of isolation.
Ajwa’s Perspective on Overcoming Emotional Disturbance
Ajwa believes that understanding and addressing emotional disturbances is not just about symptom management, but about fostering a deeper connection with oneself. “Emotional disturbances are messages from our inner world—signals that something within us needs attention and care,” she explains. At Aligned Roots, the focus is on guiding individuals towards healing by addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
Through personalised programmes and compassionate guidance, Aligned Roots aims to empower individuals to regain control over their emotional well-being, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.
For more information on managing emotional disturbances and to explore Aligned Roots’ therapeutic services, visit alignedroots.com.