Why You Feel Cold When You Are Really Upset: Understanding the Body’s Response

Understanding Emotional Coldness and Its Causes

Have you ever experienced moments of intense emotional distress, only to feel cold and shivery, despite being in a warm environment? This phenomenon can be confusing and even troubling. But there is scientific reasoning behind the feeling of being cold during times of upset. Let's explore why you might feel cold when you are really upset, diving into the intricacies of the human body's response to emotional and physiological stress.

Fight or Flight Response and Emotional Coldness

When your body activates the fight or flight response, it releases a surge of epinephrine (adrenaline), which causes a considerable increase in body temperature. The body responds by producing sweat to cool down. Therefore, when cold air hits your skin, it often feels even more clammy and chilly. This can be particularly evident in situations where you are upset or stressed, leading to feelings of coldness that seem unrelenting.

The Role of Emotions in Physical Sensations

When you cry or become emotional, it's a release of accumulated emotions. This process can lead to a reduction in emotional intensity, followed by a physical sensation of numbness and coldness. Your body's response to strong emotions, such as anger, fear, anxiety, and excitement, can sometimes be paradoxical. You might actually feel cold despite being flushed with adrenaline.

Medical and Psychological Perspectives

From a medical viewpoint, when someone is angry, their heart rate and blood pressure increase, leading to a rise in body temperature. Simultaneously, the body begins to perspire, releasing this excess heat. However, it's important to note that anger can also trigger a surge of adrenaline, which can cause cold sweat. This phenomenon can be attributed to the sudden release of stress hormones that activate the fight or flight response.

Psychological experts suggest that coldness during anger might also be linked to fear. When fear is present, it triggers the release of adrenaline, which can result in a chill or shiver down the spine. These physiological responses can create a chilling effect, even in the midst of anger or anxiety.

Individual Differences in Physiological Responses

It's worth noting that individual physiological responses can vary greatly. While many people experience an increase in body temperature when angry, others might feel colder. This variability is due to the complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, and environmental factors.

Some individuals may exhibit coldness as a defense mechanism, especially if they have experienced suppression of rage. Therapy and Emotional Release Techniques can help manage and express these emotions more effectively, reducing the likelihood of feeling cold in response to stress.

Conclusion

Finding respite from emotional distress is crucial for overall well-being. If you often feel cold when upset, consider exploring various methods to manage your emotions. Engaging in therapy, taking online courses, or seeking professional advice can provide valuable insights and tools to help you navigate these challenging emotions.

Understanding the body's response to emotional and physiological stress can empower you to take proactive steps towards emotional and physical balance. Remember, it's important to seek help and support when needed, to ensure your health and happiness.