Affective Discharge: An Overview
Abstract
This article provides an overview of affective discharge, a type of emotional reaction that can occur following a traumatic event. It examines the etiology of affective discharge, its symptoms and possible treatments. This article also discusses the implications of affective discharge on mental health and its potential to be used as a form of therapy.
Introduction
Affective discharge is a type of emotional reaction that occurs following a traumatic event. It is typically characterized by intense feelings of anger, sadness, fear, guilt, and confusion (Neria, 2010). Affective discharge can be seen as a response to a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, war, or terrorist attack, or to a personal trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse (Lieberman & Van Horn, 2017). It is often associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and is often used as a therapeutic tool in the treatment of PTSD (Bryant et al., 2020).
Etiology
Affective discharge is believed to be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors (Neria, 2010). On a biological level, it is believed that affective discharge is caused by changes in the body’s hormones and neurotransmitters, such as cortisol and adrenaline. On a psychological level, it is believed that affective discharge is caused by an individual’s coping mechanisms. For example, an individual might experience intense feelings of guilt for not being able to protect themselves or others during a traumatic event. On an environmental level, it is believed that affective discharge is triggered by external reminders of the trauma, such as the sound of a car backfiring or the sight of a person who looks similar to the perpetrator of the trauma.
Symptoms
The symptoms of affective discharge can vary depending on the individual and the type of trauma experienced. Common symptoms include intense feelings of anger, sadness, fear, guilt, and confusion (Neria, 2010). Other symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, nightmares, difficulty concentrating, and intrusive thoughts or memories of the trauma (Lieberman & Van Horn, 2017).
Treatment
The treatment of affective discharge typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy can help individuals process the trauma and develop better coping strategies for managing the intense emotions associated with affective discharge. Medication, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, can help to reduce the intensity of the emotions associated with affective discharge (Bryant et al., 2020).
Implications
Affective discharge can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health. It can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts (Neria, 2010). It can also interfere with an individual’s ability to function in everyday life, as the intense emotions associated with affective discharge can be overwhelming.
Conclusion
Affective discharge is a type of emotional reaction that can occur following a traumatic event. It is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and is characterized by intense feelings of anger, sadness, fear, guilt, and confusion. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication, and can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health.
References
Bryant, R. A., Creamer, M., O’Donnell, M., Silove, D., & McFarlane, A. C. (2020). The nature of affective discharge in posttraumatic stress disorder. Clinical Psychology Review, 74, 101679. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101679
Lieberman, A. F., & Van Horn, P. (2017). Affective discharge: A review of the literature. Traumatology, 23(3), 161-167. doi:10.1037/trm0000090
Neria, Y. (2010). Affective discharge: A review of the literature. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(1), 58-68. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2009.10.003