First Psychology blog

What is remorse? Remorse is a complex and powerful emotion often experienced when we regret or feel guilt over past actions or decisions. The impact of remorse on mental wellbeing can be significant, affecting various aspects of our life including our emotional state, relationships, and overall quality of life. A research journal published by the American Psychological Association suggests that “action-related regrets, although painful, spur people to learn from their mistakes and move on. But regret related to the inaction path – the things undone, the opportunities lost – is harder to fix. This kind of regret is more likely to lead to depression, anxiety, a sense of ‘stuckness’ and a feeling of longing over not knowing what could have been .” The effects of remorse Negative thoughts and emotions One of the primary ways in which remorse impacts our mental wellbeing is through its effects on emotional health. Feelings of guilt and regret can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety...