Mood and emotions: how are they different?

They seem the same, but they are not. Mood and emotions trace two very similar phenomena, but different at the same time. This particularity that limits each dimension allows us to know much better our behavior, our mental state and the way we interact with the environment. In reality, what we feel is everything.

We could say that the main distinction between one reality and another is time. Emotions belong to the body and are the first to appear; they do it very fast. Later comes the mental representation of them, that is, the feelings. Finally, a more complex phase occurs in which many of these feelings can be combined, leaving us with the imprint of a specific state of mind.

As we can sense, it is a sophisticated process that encourages us in one direction or another. While some are based on psychophysiological reactions to specific stimuli, the other is more generalized and depends on multiple factors that we cannot always identify.

For example, we may have an irritable mood for a few days and not really know the reason. Understanding the difference between one dimension and another will make it easier for us to manage them much better..

Differences between mood and emotions

How are you feeling lately? Off, without much desire for anything and perhaps sad? By answering this simple question we will already be talking about our state of mind. It is true that emotions color our lives, but the state of mind offers it a more stable and persistent tone. Emotion is a specific brushstroke originated from a stimulus.

It is always interesting to remember that when we talk about these topics, it is essential to name a reference in this field. Psychologist Paul Ekman explained the basic differences between these two dimensions in his book The Nature Of Emotion. In this way, the first thing we must understand is that poor understanding and management of them can play tricks on us.

As Daniel Goleman said, emotional self-control is the basis of all achievements. Now, said self-control requires good knowledge in this competence. Understanding what happens to us and why will allow us to regulate what happens to us to achieve what we want at all times.. Let’s now look at those differences between mood and emotions.

1. Purpose: who is who

What is each of these dimensions for? We know that both belong to the territory of affects and that they determine mental well-being or discomfort. However, each one fulfills a specific purpose:

Emotions are intended to facilitate our adaptation to events (stimuli) in the environment. Therefore, they define an immediate psychophysiological response to a specific stimulus, and it does so by releasing a series of neurotransmitters.Mood is a mixture of emotions and feelings accumulated over days. That is, it is a state in which mental, emotional and physical discomfort or well-being are combined. There is no purpose in this type of multifactorial experiences, they are rather a temporary reaction to an accumulation of psychoemotional sensations that we must understand.

2. Duration: emotions are faster and more fleeting

Paul Ekman points out that emotions are intense but brief sensations, which can last a few seconds or a few minutes. However, Moods accompany us for hours and even days. We have all gone through those times when we felt more down or motivated, full of energy.

In addition, If we carry an apathetic or hopeless mood for several weeks or months, we would be talking about an affective disorder. (seasonal well, a depressive disorder such as dysthymia, etc.)

3. Triggers: what causes mood and emotions?

Canterbury Christ Church University conducted a study to understand the difference between mood and emotions. One of the issues that determined the appearance of one or the other are the triggers.

The James-Lange theory proposes that the origin of emotions is related to our physiological reactions to stimuli.

For example, when I arrive at work, I see that the computer does not start. My emotional reaction is tension and behind it, anger or frustration because the measures I take do not work. However, The trigger that shapes our mood is complex and appears over time; it’s not immediate. In it, a specific mental state is combined, a series of emotions that we feel day after day (which accumulate) and also our physical state.

Sometimes, factors such as stress at work, worry, lack of exercise and poor diet create a hopeless and negative mood. This reality is known to all of us.

4. How are they regulated?

Emotions are psychophysiological responses. They alter our thoughts, they can cloud our attention, generate muscle tension, stomach pain… All of these reactions happen very quickly, but the problem is that we can get carried away by them and issue an inappropriate response. For example, saying something disrespectful when we get angry.

To regulate an emotion, the first thing we must do is not let ourselves be carried away by it instinctively without first having analyzed it and made contact with it to understand it. Because its purpose is simple: to help us adapt better to our environment. If I am angry, I must resolve that unfair situation, not get carried away by it.

However, Moods require more delicate, deep psychological work maintained over time.. They are like a bottle full of many ingredients that we must analyze before it overflows or bursts.

If I feel hopeless, I must understand what is behind that state. Maybe there is an excess of worry, careless emotions, and lifestyle habits that we should change. That’s what it’s all about, after all, looking inward to understand, to make changes, to know ourselves better and give ourselves what we need.

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