Ineffective emotion regulation

NANDA Nursing Diagnose - Ineffective emotion regulation

Code: 00372
Domain: Domain 9 - Coping - Stress tolerance
Class: Class 3 - Neurobehavioral responses
Status: Current diagnoses

The NANDA-I diagnosis of 'Ineffective emotion regulation' holds significant relevance in nursing practice, as it underscores the complex interplay between emotional health and overall patient well-being. Understanding and addressing this diagnosis is crucial for nurses, who play a pivotal role in identifying and managing patients' emotional needs. Failure to recognize ineffective emotion regulation can lead to severe consequences, including impaired social functionality and relationships, further complicating treatment and recovery processes.

This exploration aims to illuminate the intricacies of the NANDA-I diagnosis 'Ineffective emotion regulation' by providing a comprehensive definition and delving into various critical aspects associated with it. The discussion will highlight the defining characteristics of this diagnosis, as well as the related factors and conditions that contribute to its manifestation. By thoroughly unpacking these elements, the post seeks to enhance the understanding of how nurses can effectively approach this significant aspect of patient care.

Definition of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

'Ineffective emotion regulation' refers to a state characterized by an individual's inability to manage or modulate their emotional responses effectively, often resulting in significant disruption to their thought processes, behaviors, and social interactions. This diagnosis encompasses a range of emotional dysregulation symptoms, manifesting as inappropriate emotional responses, difficulty in maintaining eye contact, and a propensity for ambivalence or emotional blunting. Individuals may experience involuntary expressions such as excessive crying or laughing without a corresponding emotional context, leading to feelings of embarrassment and social withdrawal. This condition can be exacerbated by various factors, including heightened stress levels, fatigue, inadequate coping strategies, and low self-esteem, which may stem from underlying mental health issues or other physical impairments. Ultimately, ineffective emotion regulation not only diminishes interpersonal relationships and social engagement but also contributes to a pervasive sense of alienation and difficulty in navigating daily life scenarios.

Defining Characteristics of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" is identified by its defining characteristics. These are explained below:

Subjective Characteristics
- Ausencia de contacto visual Evidence of ineffective emotion regulation is indicated by the patient's avoidance of eye contact, suggesting a profound discomfort in connecting emotionally with others. This behavior can arise from feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or a fear of vulnerability, making it a significant marker of emotional distress. Clinically, it may be observed during interactions where the patient seems withdrawn or preoccupied, thus confirming the presence of emotional dysregulation.
- Ambivalencia The experience of mixed feelings complicates emotional clarity and decision-making, demonstrating the patient's struggle with internal conflict. This ambivalence can manifest in indecisiveness regarding important life choices, indicating a lack of effective coping strategies and increasing psychological burden. Clinicians can assess this through verbal disclosures during conversation, highlighting the patient's emotional instability.
- Apatía A notable lack of interest in daily activities and social interactions represents a significant characteristic of ineffective emotion regulation. Patients may no longer derive pleasure from activities they previously enjoyed, suggesting potential underlying conditions like depression or anxiety. This apathy can be evaluated using standardized tools such as the Beck Depression Inventory, demonstrating the depth of emotional disconnect.
- Llanto The occurrence of tears without a clear trigger is a strong indicator of emotional instability. It signifies an inability to appropriately process and express emotions, often resulting in unexpected emotional outbursts. Clinicians can identify this through patient reports or by observation during therapy, marking a breakdown in the capacity to regulate feelings effectively.
- Vergüenza respecto a la expresión emocional Feelings of shame when expressing emotions can inhibit emotional expression, leading to increased internal conflict and psychological distress. This characteristic suggests a fear of judgment from others, which may be tied to past experiences or cultural factors. Clinicians can explore these feelings further during assessment interviews, aiming to alleviate the burden of shame associated with emotional expression.
Objective Characteristics
- Aplanamiento emocional This characteristic reflects a diminished range of emotional expression, often observable in the patient's flat affect. Clinically, this affects communication and relationship dynamics, as it can signal severe abnormalities in emotional processing. Evaluation typically involves observing the patient’s facial expressions and vocal tone during interaction.
- Llanto excesivo sin sentir tristeza Inappropriate crying can occur without the typical emotional triggers, potentially confusing both the patient and observers. This signifies an inability to control emotional responses adequately, indicating severe dysregulation. Assessment may include monitoring emotional responses in various contexts to discern patterns of expression.
- Risa excesiva sin sentir felicidad Instances of inappropriate laughter may point towards cognitive dissonance or emotional displacement, often seen in conditions like bipolar disorder or certain personality disorders. Careful observation of the patient’s context and prior emotional state at the time of laughter provides insights into their dysregulated emotional state.
- Comunicación no verbal deteriorada Poor nonverbal communication reflects a disconnect between emotional experience and expression, complicating social interactions and relationships. This includes mismatched facial expressions and body language, requiring close clinical observation to identify discrepancies that signal difficulties in emotional processing.
- Llanto involuntario Uncontrollable crying often indicates overwhelming anxiety or emotional pain, representing a core challenge in emotion regulation. Clinicians can assess this involuntary behavior both during clinical encounters and through patient self-reports, uncovering leading factors that contribute to emotional dysregulation.
- Risa involuntaria Laughing without a clear reason can elicit discomfort in social settings, indicating a deeper emotional struggle. Observation during group therapy or social activities can aid clinicians in identifying triggers and contexts for this behavior, highlighting areas requiring targeted intervention.
- Ataques de pánico Sudden episodes of intense fear are hallmark features of ineffective emotion regulation, resulting in significant physiological and psychological symptoms. Evaluating the frequency and context of panic attacks can provide crucial insights into emotional distress, impacting the patient's overall functioning and quality of life.
- Fobias The presence of irrational fears can compel patients to avoid specific situations, significantly limiting their daily lives. Clinicians need to explore these fears through clinical assessments, understanding the underlying emotional dysregulation that may contribute to these phobic responses.
- Aislamiento social Withdrawal from social activities reflects a struggle with emotional regulation, resulting in increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Assessing the degree of social engagement versus withdrawal can inform treatment approaches aimed at enhancing social skills and emotional expression.
- Llanto incontrolable When crying becomes uncontrollable, it signifies an inability to manage emotions within an expected range, causing emotional fatigue for the patient. Clinicians can assess this behavior contextually, ensuring they understand the triggers and emotional states that lead to such overwhelming responses.
- Risa incontrolable Involuntary and excessive laughter may complicate social interactions, indicating difficulties in managing emotional states. Assessment of the patient’s emotional regulation skills can guide interventions to teach more appropriate emotional expressions.
- Retiro de situaciones ocupacionales The avoidance of work or academic responsibilities illustrates a significant impact of ineffective emotion regulation on daily functioning. Clinicians should evaluate how emotional struggles translate into real-world consequences, providing insights for intervention strategies that support better emotional management and engagement with activities.

Related Factors (Etiology) of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The etiology of "Ineffective emotion regulation" is explored through its related factors. These are explained below:

Excessive Stress High levels of stress can overwhelm an individual's capacity to manage emotions effectively. When stress is persistent, it creates a state of hyperarousal in the body, triggering the fight-or-flight response. This physiological response can hinder emotional processing, making it difficult for individuals to recognize, identify, and regulate their feelings. This overwhelming state may lead to maladaptive coping strategies, which can further exacerbate emotional dysregulation. Clinically, it is crucial to assess sources of stress and implement stress management techniques to empower the patient to regain control over their emotional responses.
Fatigue Physical and emotional exhaustion, often resulting from prolonged stress, can significantly impair an individual's ability to regulate emotions. Fatigue can diminish cognitive function, affecting attention, memory, and decision-making abilities. When someone is fatigued, their emotional responses are more likely to be reactive rather than reflective, leading to impulsive behaviors and ineffective coping mechanisms. Clinicians should focus on strategies to restore energy levels, such as encouraging adequate sleep, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and identifying barriers to rest and recuperation.
Inadequate Knowledge about Symptom Control A lack of understanding on how to effectively manage emotions can contribute to ineffective regulation. When individuals are not aware of the techniques available for emotional regulation, they may resort to avoidance strategies, such as repression or denial. This ignorance can stem from insufficient education about emotional health and coping strategies. The clinical focus should be on psychoeducation, where patients are taught about emotional awareness, regulation techniques, and the impacts of their emotional state on overall health, thereby empowering them with the knowledge needed to manage their emotions more effectively.
Inadequate Knowledge of the Disease Process When patients lack awareness about their emotional conditions—such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, or situational stressors—they may struggle to manage their emotions appropriately. This gap in understanding can lead to misattributions of their emotional experiences, which may prevent them from seeking help or utilizing effective coping techniques. Education about the nature of their emotional challenges, including recognizing symptoms and related triggers, is critical. Clinicians should provide information regarding the connection between emotional health and overall well-being to enhance recognition and protect against ineffective regulation.
Inadequate Self-Esteem Low self-esteem can heavily influence an individual's emotion regulation capacities. When a person's self-worth is compromised, they may internalize negative emotions and view emotional expressions as vulnerabilities. This mindset can promote avoidance behaviors, such as suppressing emotions or failing to express needs, leading to heightened emotional dysregulation over time. For effective clinical intervention, mental health professionals should aim to bolster self-esteem through cognitive restructuring, positive reinforcement, and fostering environments where individuals feel secure to express their emotions.
Muscle Weakness Physical weakness can be a significant barrier to dealing with emotional stressors. When individuals are physically compromised, they may experience limitations in their coping mechanisms, thereby increasing their feelings of helplessness. This can lead to a cycle of emotional distress due to an inability to engage in physical activities that could alleviate stress, such as exercise or self-care routines. Clinicians should assess physical capabilities and integrate physical rehabilitation or adaptive strategies that can promote emotional well-being, emphasizing the interconnectedness between physical and emotional health.
Social Distress Environmental or social factors that lead to anxiety, such as negative interpersonal relationships or societal pressures, can greatly affect one's ability to regulate emotions. This distress can make individuals more susceptible to emotional dysregulation, as chronic social anxiety fosters a sense of isolation and hopelessness. Clinicians need to encourage social skills training, explore opportunities for positive social interactions, and consider therapeutic modalities like group therapy that foster social connections while addressing emotional challenges.
Substance Abuse The use of drugs or alcohol often disrupts the brain's natural regulatory mechanisms for emotions, leading to poor emotional processing and exacerbated dysregulation. Substance use can serve as an escape from emotional distress in the short term but typically results in increased anxiety or depressive symptoms in the long term. Clinically, it is essential to screen for substance use and provide interventions that address both emotional regulation and addiction, such as integrated treatment programs that focus on emotional skills development and addiction recovery simultaneously.

At-Risk Population for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

Certain groups are more susceptible to "Ineffective emotion regulation". These are explained below:

Children (Age 4 and Above)
Children from the age of four are particularly vulnerable to ineffective emotion regulation due to several developmental factors. At this age, children are just beginning to understand and express their emotions, but they often lack the cognitive and emotional maturity needed to manage these effectively. The acquisition of emotional regulation skills is influenced by social interactions, family dynamics, and environmental factors. If a child grows up in a chaotic environment where emotions are poorly modeled or where there is a lack of emotional support, they may struggle to learn how to identify, express, and regulate their emotions healthily. Additionally, children with limited coping skills or those who experience trauma or high-stress situations are at increased risk for developing ineffective coping strategies, leading to long-term problems with emotion regulation.
Adolescents
During adolescence, individuals undergo significant psychological changes. This period is marked by heightened emotional reactivity and identity exploration, but also by increased vulnerabilities to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Adolescents often experience peer pressure, academic stressors, and the influence of social media, which can complicate their emotional landscape. If they do not receive adequate guidance and support during this formative time, they may struggle with negative emotions and ineffective regulation strategies. Additionally, adolescents' brain development is still ongoing, particularly in areas linked to impulse control and emotional management, making them more susceptible to emotional dysregulation.
Adults with Past Trauma
Adults who have experienced trauma, particularly in childhood, are at a heightened risk for ineffective emotion regulation. Trauma can have a profound impact on the brain's development and function, leading to emotional dysregulation and difficulties with coping strategies. These individuals may have learned to avoid emotional expression or may have developed maladaptive responses to stress and negative emotions. Such avoidance can manifest as repressed emotions, which eventually may lead to outbursts or emotional numbing. Moreover, adults with a history of trauma may also struggle with trust issues and have difficulty forming stable relationships, further exacerbating their challenges related to emotional regulation.
Individuals with Mental Health Disorders
People with existing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder, are particularly susceptible to ineffective emotion regulation. These conditions often involve heightened emotional sensitivity and difficulties in managing responses to stress. For instance, individuals with anxiety disorders may overreact to perceived threats, while those with depression might withdraw excessively or exhibit low emotional expression. The interplay between underlying mental health issues and emotion regulation can create a vicious cycle where poor regulation leads to greater emotional distress, which in turn exacerbates the underlying mental health disorder. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help, further perpetuating their difficulties.

Associated Conditions for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" can coexist with other conditions. These are explained below:

Neurological Injuries The impact of brain injuries on emotional regulation is profound due to the disruption of the neural pathways involved in emotional control. Damage to areas such as the prefrontal cortex can result in impulsive behavior, difficulty in deciding appropriate emotional responses, and increased vulnerability to emotional distress. This direct link highlights the necessity for healthcare providers to assess cognitive and emotional functioning in patients with neurological injuries, as cognitive rehabilitation programs may be needed for effective emotional management.
Functional Impairments Functional impairments, be they physical or cognitive, can significantly impact an individual's ability to effectively regulate their emotions. Limitations such as reduced mobility or cognitive deficits may lead to frustration, helplessness, and an inability to engage in coping strategies that typically aid in emotion regulation. Therefore, assessment of an individual's functional status is critical in care planning, as interventions must account for these limitations to foster better emotional outcomes.
Mental Health Disorders Coexisting mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can exacerbate challenges in effective emotion regulation. Depression often leads to a decreased ability to process emotions, while anxiety may result in heightened emotional responses or avoidance of emotions altogether. Understanding these interactions is essential for clinicians, as treating the underlying mental health condition can significantly enhance emotional regulation abilities and overall recovery.
mood Disorders Individuals suffering from mood disorders often experience dysregulation of emotional responses due to chemical imbalances in the brain that affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. These disorders can lead to extreme emotional fluctuations, poor impulse control, and challenges in maintaining a stable emotional state, necessitating a biopsychosocial approach to assessment and treatment that addresses both the mood disorder and its emosional regulation implications.
Muskuloskeletal Deterioration Conditions that impair musculoskeletal functioning can hinder social interactions and physical activities, which are crucial for emotional well-being. The resulting isolation and lack of social engagement may lead to feelings of depression and anxiety, which can further complicate emotion regulation. Recognizing the psychological impacts of physical limitations is vital for developing a comprehensive care plan that includes psychosocial support alongside physical rehabilitation.
Pharmaceutical Preparations Certain medications, particularly those affecting neurotransmitter systems, can complicate emotional regulation. Some psychotropic drugs may lead to side effects such as emotional blunting or increased emotional reactivity, thus altering the individual’s ability to modulate their emotional responses. Healthcare providers must meticulously evaluate the patient's medication regimen and consider side effects that may interfere with emotional regulation as part of the overall therapeutic approach.
Physical Disability Physical disabilities not only restrict movement but also create barriers to social engagement, often leading to feelings of isolation and inadequacy. These barriers can exacerbate existing issues with emotion regulation, making it essential for care providers to focus on promoting social connectivity and emotional support systems, alongside addressing physical rehabilitation needs. Comprehensive care should include facilitating adaptive strategies for emotional coping and promoting social inclusion.

NOC Objectives / Expected Outcomes

For the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation", the following expected outcomes (NOC) are proposed to guide the evaluation of the effectiveness of nursing interventions. These objectives focus on improving the patient's status in relation to the manifestations and etiological factors of the diagnosis:

Emotional Regulation
This outcome is directly related to the ability of the patient to recognize and manage their emotional responses. Achieving this outcome represents an improvement in the patient's capacity to control their emotions, leading to healthier coping mechanisms and reduced emotional distress.
Interpersonal Relationships
Enhancing interpersonal relationships is crucial for individuals struggling with emotion regulation. Positive relationships provide support and stability, which can facilitate the patient's emotional wellbeing. Improvement in this outcome indicates better social support and reduced feelings of isolation, contributing to effective emotion management.
Self-Control
This outcome measures the patient's ability to manage impulses and reactions to emotional stimuli. Achieving improved self-control is essential for individuals with ineffective emotion regulation, as it allows for more thoughtful responses over reactive ones, thereby decreasing incidents of emotional dysregulation.
Adaptive Coping
This outcome focuses on the development and implementation of adaptive coping strategies. The successful attainment of this outcome indicates that the patient is employing healthier ways to face emotional challenges, which can greatly mitigate the symptoms associated with ineffective emotion regulation.

NIC Interventions / Nursing Care Plan

To address the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" and achieve the proposed NOC objectives, the following nursing interventions (NIC) are suggested. These interventions are designed to treat the etiological factors and manifestations of the diagnosis:

Coping Enhancement
This intervention involves teaching the patient various coping strategies that can help them manage their emotions more effectively. By providing education and practice opportunities, patients can learn to identify their emotional triggers and apply coping mechanisms, ultimately leading to improved emotional regulation and resilience.
Emotional Support
Providing emotional support encompasses active listening and validating the patient's feelings and experiences. This intervention creates a safe environment where patients feel understood and accepted, which can reduce anxiety and promote healthier emotional responses. It is essential for enhancing the patient’s commitment to using the skills learned to manage emotions.
Relaxation Therapy
This intervention involves teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation. These strategies help reduce physiological stress responses and promote emotional calmness, thereby fostering improved emotion regulation. It assists patients in managing acute emotional distress effectively.
Self-Monitoring
Self-monitoring includes encouraging patients to keep track of their emotions and stress levels over time. This practice helps individuals recognize patterns in their emotional responses and the situations that trigger them. By increasing self-awareness, patients can develop better strategies for managing their emotions proactively.

Detailed Nursing Activities

The NIC interventions for the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" are composed of specific activities that nursing staff carry out to provide effective care. Below, examples of activities for the key identified interventions are detailed:

For the NIC Intervention: Coping Enhancement

Assess the patient’s current coping strategies by discussing past experiences, which allows for identifying strengths and areas for improvement in emotional management.
Teach techniques such as cognitive reframing, where nurses help the patient shift their perspective on stressors, promoting more adaptive responses.
Role-play various scenarios with the patient to practice new coping strategies in a controlled environment, enhancing their confidence in real-life application.

For the NIC Intervention: Emotional Support

Engage in active listening by maintaining eye contact and using affirming verbal and non-verbal cues, which fosters a supportive atmosphere for emotional expression.
Facilitate group sessions where patients can share their experiences, cultivating a sense of community and shared understanding that can lessen feelings of isolation.
Regularly provide affirmations and positive feedback, reinforcing the patient’s efforts in managing their emotions and promoting a sense of self-worth.

For the NIC Intervention: Relaxation Therapy

Guide the patient through a deep breathing exercise, emphasizing slow inhalation and exhalation, to help them control their physiological response to stress.
Introduce progressive muscle relaxation techniques, instructing patients to tense and relax specific muscle groups, which can reduce tension and improve emotional clarity.
Incorporate guided imagery sessions where patients visualize calming and positive scenarios, aiding them in reducing stress and focusing emotionally.

Practical Tips and Advice

To more effectively manage the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" and improve well-being, the following suggestions and tips are offered for patients and their families:

Practice Mindfulness

Engaging in mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help you stay present and reduce overwhelming feelings. Start with just a few minutes each day to help center your thoughts and emotions.
Establish a Routine

Having a daily schedule can provide structure and predictability, which can help in managing emotions. Try setting regular times for meals, exercise, and relaxation to create a stable environment.
Seek Social Support

Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide a safe space to express feelings and gain perspective. Don't hesitate to reach out and share your experiences with those who understand.
Journaling

Writing about your thoughts and emotions can serve as a form of emotional release. Consider keeping a journal to document your feelings, which can help you identify patterns and triggers over time.
Engage in Physical Activity

Regular exercise has proven benefits for emotional regulation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week, as it can help release endorphins and improve mood.
Identify Triggers

Spend time observing what situations or thoughts provoke strong emotions. By becoming aware of your triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or cope with them more effectively in the future.
Set Realistic Goals

Break down larger emotional goals into manageable steps. Setting small, achievable targets can foster a sense of accomplishment and gradually improve your ability to regulate emotions.

Practical Example / Illustrative Case Study

To illustrate how the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation" is applied in clinical practice and how it is addressed, let's consider the following case:

Patient Presentation and Clinical Context

The patient is a 34-year-old female who recently experienced the loss of her mother. She has a history of generalized anxiety disorder and has struggled with mood swings since the loss. She was referred for nursing assessment due to heightened signs of emotional distress, including frequent crying episodes and feelings of hopelessness.

Nursing Assessment

During the assessment, the following significant data were collected:

Key Subjective Data 1: The patient reports feeling overwhelmed by sadness and states, "I can't control my emotions; I cry at the smallest things."
Key Subjective Data 2: She describes feelings of helplessness and mentions difficulty concentrating on daily tasks.
Key Objective Data 1: Observed emotional dysregulation, with episodes of tearfulness during the discussion.
Key Objective Data 2: Increased heart rate (100 bpm) noted during emotional discussions, indicating physiological responses to stress.
Key Subjective Data 3: She expresses avoidance of social interactions, stating, "I just want to be alone."

Analysis and Formulation of the NANDA-I Nursing Diagnosis

The analysis of the assessment data leads to the identification of the following nursing diagnosis: Ineffective emotion regulation. This conclusion is based on the patient's self-reported difficulties in managing her emotional responses and observable signs of emotional distress. The presence of significant distress following her mother's death, coupled with physiological signs of anxiety, indicates a failure to effectively integrate emotional experiences into her daily life, consistent with the defining characteristics of this diagnosis.

Proposed Care Plan (Key Objectives and Interventions)

The care plan will focus on addressing the "Ineffective emotion regulation" diagnosis with the following priority elements:

Objectives (Suggested NOCs)

Demonstrates increased use of effective emotional regulation strategies.
Improves ability to articulate feelings and cope with them in a healthy manner.

Interventions (Suggested NICs)

Emotional Support:
- Encourage the patient to express feelings and thoughts during each session.
- Provide a safe environment for her to discuss her emotions without judgment.
Coping Enhancement:
- Teach relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises to manage emotional surges.
- Introduce journaling as a way for the patient to process emotions effectively.

Progress and Expected Outcomes

With the implementation of the proposed interventions, it is expected that the patient will demonstrate improved emotional regulation as evidenced by a reduction in crying episodes and increased willingness to engage in social activities. Continuous monitoring will allow evaluation of the plan's effectiveness and adjustments as necessary to support her emotional recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about the NANDA-I diagnosis "Ineffective emotion regulation":

What does 'Ineffective emotion regulation' mean?

'Ineffective emotion regulation' refers to the difficulty individuals face in managing their emotional responses, which can lead to distress, anxiety, or mood instability, impacting their daily functioning.

What are the symptoms of ineffective emotion regulation?

Symptoms may include frequent mood swings, difficulty calming down after emotional upsets, impulsive reactions, and challenges in maintaining positive relationships due to uncontrolled emotional responses.

How is this diagnosis assessed in patients?

Nurses assess this diagnosis through observation of emotional reactions, patient self-reports, and standardized assessment tools that measure emotional regulation strategies and coping mechanisms.

What interventions can help improve emotion regulation?

Interventions may include therapy (like cognitive-behavioral therapy), mindfulness practices, emotion regulation skills training, and support from counseling or support groups to develop healthier coping strategies.

Who can help with managing ineffective emotion regulation?

A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help address ineffective emotion regulation, supported by nurses and social workers in a holistic healthcare approach.