Why Do I Cry and Feel Numb When Scolded? Emotional Responses

Crying when scolded and experiencing numbness in the hands?

I am a nearly 20-year-old girl who has always cried when scolded by elders since childhood.
While crying was not a big deal when I was younger, my tendency to cry has not diminished over time.
Now that I am approaching adulthood, whenever my family raises their voices to reprimand me, tears uncontrollably fall.
Gradually, my hands start to feel numb, and I feel the urge to shout back.
Once I start crying, I lose control of my emotions and find it difficult to communicate.
My family believes that at my age, still crying so easily might indicate some kind of mental illness.

Li Mini, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/23

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry

Hello Ms.
Li, currently there is no diagnosis of "crying disorder" in psychiatry.
The numbness in your hands when you cry excessively may be a symptom caused by hyperventilation due to emotional excitement.
Learning emotional regulation and frustration tolerance may be beneficial for you.
You can seek assistance from a psychologist to learn relaxation and emotional awareness techniques through cognitive behavioral therapy.
Regarding whether there are issues with overly fragile self-esteem or other personality concerns, collaborating with a therapist can enhance self-regulation and lead to positive changes.
Sincerely, Dr.
Song.

Reply Date: 2015/12/23

More Info

Crying and feeling numb in response to being scolded can be a complex emotional reaction rooted in various psychological and physiological factors. As you approach adulthood, it’s important to understand that emotional responses, such as crying, are not inherently indicative of a mental illness. Instead, they can be manifestations of deeper emotional processing, stress, and past experiences.

Understanding Emotional Responses
1. Emotional Sensitivity: Some individuals are naturally more sensitive to emotional stimuli. This sensitivity can be heightened by past experiences, such as childhood interactions with authority figures. If you were often reprimanded as a child, your brain may have developed a conditioned response to such situations, leading to tears and feelings of numbness when faced with criticism.

2. Fight or Flight Response: When scolded, your body may trigger a fight-or-flight response, which is a physiological reaction to perceived threats. This response can cause a rush of adrenaline, leading to physical symptoms such as numbness in your hands and a heightened emotional state. The tears may be a way for your body to release pent-up stress or anxiety.

3. Communication Barriers: It’s common for individuals to struggle with expressing their feelings verbally, especially in high-stress situations. When faced with confrontation, you may feel overwhelmed, leading to an inability to articulate your thoughts or feelings. This can result in crying as a form of emotional release, rather than a conscious decision to express sadness.

4. Cultural and Familial Expectations: In many cultures, emotional expression is viewed differently based on gender and age. As a young woman, societal expectations may pressure you to be more emotionally expressive, which could contribute to feelings of frustration when you cry. Additionally, family dynamics can play a significant role; if your family does not understand or accept your emotional responses, it can lead to feelings of isolation and confusion.

Managing Emotional Responses
1. Self-Awareness: Begin by recognizing your emotional triggers. Understanding what specifically causes you to cry can help you prepare for those situations. Keeping a journal to document your feelings and reactions can provide insight into patterns and help you articulate your emotions better.

2. Practice Communication: Work on expressing your feelings in a calm and constructive manner. You might find it helpful to write down what you want to say before a confrontation. This can help you articulate your thoughts without becoming overwhelmed by emotion.

3. Breathing Techniques: When you feel the urge to cry or become numb, practice deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help calm your nervous system and reduce the intensity of your emotional response.

4. Seek Support: If your emotional responses are significantly impacting your daily life, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They can provide strategies tailored to your specific needs and help you explore any underlying issues that may be contributing to your emotional reactions.

5. Mindfulness and Relaxation: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, to help ground yourself in the present moment. These practices can enhance your emotional regulation and reduce anxiety.

Conclusion
Crying and feeling numb when scolded is a natural emotional response that many people experience, especially those who are sensitive or have a history of emotional challenges. It is essential to approach these feelings with compassion and understanding rather than judgment. By developing self-awareness, practicing communication skills, and seeking support when needed, you can learn to manage your emotional responses more effectively. Remember, it’s okay to feel deeply; what matters is how you navigate those feelings in your journey toward emotional well-being.

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