Emotional regulation is an important aspect to mental health. It is a balance between expressing uncomfortable emotions without losing control. When a person is not accustomed to expressing their feelings or working through them, it can lead to emotional flooding. (For more on emotional regulation, see previous post)

Emotional flooding is when an individual’s central nervous system (brain) is overwhelmed by an influx of stimuli (emotions). This can paralyze the individual’s ability to regulate their mood. The behavior presents to be indifferent or unaffected but is the exact opposite. The person is shutting down due to stress.

For example:

Partner (A) is expressing frustration towards Partner (B)’s undesirable behavior. Partner (B) shuts down and disengages with Partner (A). Perhaps even ignoring Partner (A). This angers Partner (A) and unintentionally antagonizes them to continue with their dissatisfaction towards Partner (B). Partner (B) is experiencing emotional flooding and becomes emotionally frozen.

The article below discusses Emotional flooding in relationships and provided some helpful tips.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/stephanie-manes/relationship-tips_b_3676764.html