Thinking when emotional

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I have noticed that I have trouble thinking clearly and focusing on anything when I am really emotional. Especially when I am upset about something or excited, but even like feeling too happy about something. It's like my mind just won't settle down and move from thought to thought in an orderly fashion. I seem to have this difficulty much more than the people around me.

Am I this way because I am autistic?

I have the same issue. I don't like it at all and lately I have noticed that when I get hungry or feel poorly, I don't think right either. Hunger also makes me feel more emotional too.

No, most people have trouble thinking when they're feeling strong emotions. Maybe you have a harder time managing them than others? I can be a bit short-tempered myself.

This is a basic struggle for everyone. Eastern religions have a lot to say about the struggle and need to overcome emotions. When you are upset, the amyglydia turns off the higher brain functions and responds like a frightened lizard. Our problem may be a lack of fallback programming to moderate the reactions.

I was very interested in Buddhism a few years ago, and read a lot about it. I practiced mindfulness meditation for about a year based on what I read in a few books, and also went to a few meditation classes. I latched onto some of the dogma and doctrines of a few particular sects of Buddhism, and this didn't work for me, so I eventually gave it up.

I see that there was value in some of the ideas and practices. Lately I have been returning to thinking about them. Maybe I can find a way to engage them that is more flexible and constructive.

Also, looking back on my original post, realize that I was feeling overwhelmed when I wrote it.

Thanks for this level-headed perspective.

I would like to feel more calm and sensible in various situations. Maybe with practice...

I have also noticed that I have more trouble thinking right when I am hungry or feeling poorly.

In hindsight, it does seem that I have gotten better at thinking things through in these situations. Maybe it's because I have had to deal with things at work over the last four or so years when I was feeling hungry, tired, emotional, etc. I try to think through each move carefully before acting when I'm feeling this way. It takes a lot of effort sometimes.

It is an element of ASD to have difficulty managing or coping with emotions, which can be overwhelming if strong. Possibly you reach the point where you can't think properly more easily than most because of this.

I get down on myself after getting emotional sometimes. There are some times I think about getting back at a person, which I never do. There are other times that I think it's the end of the world and I'm in huge trouble. Sometimes I compare myself to my coworkers or original family members and I feel a little jealous that they're able to keep calm and carry on, while I'd cry into my hanky if the same things happened to me. My mum tried to raise me to have a stiff upper lip, but it never quite worked and I resent her at times for raising me that way.