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Emotionally irrational people (at least the ones I'm used to) tend to be self-centered, or self-concerned. They tend to be overly defensive and are therefore overly sensitive, thinking they are under attack or being criticized even when they're not.
If you need to deal with them (i.e. avoidance isn't a good option), just keep in mind that they are worried about their own well-being. To alleviate their concerns, try to go with an approach that is non-threatening and open. Approach them with the intent to help them understand. This takes empathy.
But at the same time, you can't bullshit them. You have to play it straight and call them out on their own bullshit. You might be surprised at how many people respond to straight-shooting honesty, especially if it is for their benefit (even if this is indirect),
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Knowing that death is certain and that the time of death is uncertain, what's the most important thing?
—Bhikkhuni Pema Chödrön
Humankind cannot bear very much reality.
—From "Burnt Norton," Four Quartets (1936), T. S. Eliot
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