Understanding the Purpose of Our Emotions (DBT Framework)

In my counseling work, I often highlight to my patients the 3 main key functions of an emotion based on DBT Dialectical Behavioural Therapy originally developed by Dr Marsha Linehan. 

1. It activates us into action. Without it, there may be less “urge” or compulsion to act. No action may result in no/little outcome or impact and at the same time, action can be helpful or destructive depending on context.

2. It helps us to communicate with others in a more holistic and non verbal kind of way. Nothing needs to be said and communication can still occur.

3. It helps us to communicate with ourselves and guides us to move towards a life that matters to us, our values/conscience, and to the people we care about.

Without it, we may be lost and without meaning and purpose.

The problem is, if we do not know how to process our feelings/emotions properly and avoid/suppress it due to discomfort, we may become lost, stuck with unresolved conflict, and not able to live a life truer to self.

Part of therapy is to raise more aware, acknowledge and equip us with better emotional literacy, to improve our emotional wellbeing and our overall physical, psychological and social health.