Emotional control can be difficult to achieve. Angry, depressing, or worrisome thoughts arise. Here’s one way to cope.
First, note the feelings that are arising. Remind yourself that you do not have to think about these things. Deliberately force yourself to think about something else.
Second, try looking at photographs of people on the Internet and try to perceive their emotions. Look at artwork and try to perceive the emotions of the subjects. Read a poem and try to identify the emotions in it.
Third, twice per day write down your feelings. Be specific. Do you feel sad? Angry? Calm? Happy? Pensive? Write down your feelings and note the different feelings you’ve experienced over the two-hour period before you started writing.
If you can identify feelings, reflect on feelings, and make efforts to control your feelings then your feelings won’t control you. It takes time and practice but these basic practices can help.
Note: If you are working with a therapist, make sure to clear any practice you wish to adopt with your clinician. They know you better than any blog post can and they can give you better advice than I can.
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