Chronic sadness, constant anger, other warning sings of dysphoria and expert tips to manage

Dysphoria is a feeling characterised by discomfort, dissatisfaction, or unease and may have a severe impact on an individual’s emotions and mental state. Most people describe these feelings as an urge to move, a disturbance within the body or mind that does not feel “right.” Such unease can arise from several factors, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, and general psychodynamic tensions. Dysphoria possesses an element of persistence and usually interrupts normal activities, social processes, and overall well-being for a prolonged period.

Dr Shriya Monga, a psycho-educator based in Bangalore, believes that treatment for dysphoria should be multi-faceted approaches dealing with the emotional, mental, and physical aspects. Simple changes in lifestyle, seeking help, and self-care are useful in lessening its effects. It is important to note that dysphoria as a form of mental illness, just like any other, can be overcome given the appropriate strategies and interventions.

Certain signs can help you understand whether you are suffering from dysphoria or not:

• Chronic sadness or discontentment

Some people feel detached and out of place for no apparent reason, or simply constantly feel unhappy. This is referred to as dysphoria. Such a condition is temporary and much different from feeling sad.

• Discomfort with one’s body or identity

Almost all people suffering from dysphoria experience feelings of discomfort with their body or even their identity. This may pertain to gender dysphoria, where there is a clash between one's physicality and gender identity or a general sense that one is in disarray.

• Emotional flatness

‘Emotional flatness’ is where nothing in life gives pleasure or evokes any excitement. Such a condition can occur in dysphoric individuals. And there might be instances where there is a loss of interest in what typically brings happiness.

• Sluggishness in focus

Mental stagnation, concentration lapses, and the inability to maintain focus on any task at hand are indicators of serious psychological distress, often experiencing dysphoria. There may be a feeling of chaos in the brain, making it difficult to remain stable.

• Anger and annoyance

Anger dysphoria is associated with disgust for certain peculiar internal feelings and usually leads to irritability and frustration over even the most insignificant issues. This condition may range from mild irritability to severe emotional disruption.

• Emotional disengagement

You might feel that there is life around you and it is actively going on, but you are not there or taking any part in it, and that causes the feeling of remoteness.

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• Diminished interest in most activities

Another underlying sign can be expressed in a persistent absence of appetite or willingness to engage in daily activities. This may aggravate hopelessness and the feelings of distress and dysphoria.

• Problems of self-perception

Persistent, pervasive feelings of unhappiness with oneself, one’s accomplishments, or appearance can be another withdrawal symptom. Dysphoria may cause cognitive distortions about oneself, leading to the development of a poor self-concept.

• Discomfort

Dysphoria is not only emotional; it can also be physical. Many individuals express feeling uncomfortable in their skin, complaining of discomfort, restlessness, physical agitation, or other similar feelings.

• Symptoms of depression or fear

The behaviour and cognition associated with dysphoria are often present in affective disorders, for example, anxiety and depression. One or more dysphoric states may also be accompanied by loss of self-worth, despair, or chronic apprehension.

What to do if you suspect dysphoria:

• Self-analysis: Ponder upon your feelings and why these feelings occur. Also, maintain a record of your feelings in a journal to identify patterns.
• Professional therapy: A therapist or counsellor can detect if you suffer from dysphoria and how it can be managed.
• Share with a trusted one: Talking out the feelings with a family member or a friend can ease some of the load and offer relief. This will in turn prevent any needless intimidation that might make therapy stressful.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.