It’s not weakness. It’s neurology.

Sometimes the tears come out of nowhere. Sometimes frustration spills over when the moment doesn’t seem to “match” the emotion.

That’s not weakness. That’s neurology.

When we talk about neurological conditions we tend to focus on the physical, the more tangible and visible symptoms . But on this Rare Disease Day I want to highlight less visible symptom, I want to talk about emotional regulation. 

We usually point to the brain’s “thinking” centers. But the cerebellum (known for balance and coordination) also plays a quiet, powerful role in controlling emotion, timing, and emotional intensity.

When the cerebellum is under strain, emotions can overflow. Not because someone is “too sensitive,” but because the brain’s internal volume control is misfiring.

Ataxia is caused by damage to the cerebellum which is also responsible for managing emotion, cognition, and behavior. This is known as Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome (CCAS), which can cause personality changes, impulsivity, and intense, irrational or even subdued emotions.

Ataxia is often seen as a movement disorder involving unsteady gait, poor coordination, slurred speech. What’s less visible is the emotional toll: sudden tears, inappropriate laughter, emotional exhaustion, and the constant effort it takes to self-regulate in a world that misunderstands what’s happening.

Emotional overflow isn’t a character flaw. It’s a neurological signal.

This Rare Disease Day I think it is important to highlight that through knowledgw and understanding we can change how we respond ,with patience instead of judgment, curiosity instead of assumptions, compassion instead of silence.

And that’s why rare diseases must stay front and center in the importance of recognition, awareness, and understanding.