ROLE OF EMOTIONAL REGULATION IN MENTAL HEALTH: NURTURING RESILIENCE THROUGH MINDFULNESS AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

Abstract

Emotional regulation plays a pivotal role in shaping individual well-being and fostering resilience. Defined as the ability to manage and modulate emotions effectively, emotional regulation is critical for maintaining mental health. Poor emotional regulation is often linked to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and stress, while effective regulation promotes psychological stability and adaptive coping mechanisms. The purpose of emotional regulation extends beyond personal well-being, as it forms the foundation for healthy interpersonal relationships, goal attainment, and overall life satisfaction. As a key element of resilience, emotional regulation enables individuals to recover from setbacks, navigate challenges, and thrive in adversity. Integrating mindfulness and emotional intelligence further strengthens this process. Mindfulness fosters present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance, which aids in recognizing and managing emotions. Emotional intelligence enhances this synergy by promoting self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills, making it easier to understand and regulate emotions constructively. Together, mindfulness and emotional intelligence create a dynamic framework for building resilience, empowering individuals to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. This chapter highlights the importance of emotional regulation as a cornerstone of mental health and resilience, emphasizing the transformative potential of mindfulness and emotional intelligence in fostering a balanced, adaptable, and emotionally healthy life.