When You Feel Numb or Disconnected

Not every mental health struggle feels loud. Sometimes it is not crying or panic attacks or big breakdowns. Sometimes it is feeling nothing at all.

You might wake up and go through your day like you are on autopilot. You laugh when you are supposed to, respond when people talk to you, but inside, everything feels flat. You are not sad exactly, but you are not really here either.

This kind of emotional numbness can be confusing and even scary. It can happen when your brain feels overwhelmed, when you have been through a lot, or when you have been pushing your feelings aside for so long that your mind starts to shut things off to protect you.

If you are feeling this way, you are not broken. You are not lazy. And you are definitely not alone.

Here are a few things that can help when you feel disconnected:

• Try doing something physical. Even a short walk, stretching, or dancing in your room can remind your body that you are here and alive.

• Write things down. It does not have to make sense. Sometimes just letting your thoughts spill out helps you feel more real.

• Talk to someone you trust. You do not have to have the perfect words. You can just say, I am not sure how I am feeling right now, but I do not feel like myself.

If this numbness sticks around for a while or gets in the way of your daily life, it is okay to reach out for professional support. Therapy can be a space to explore those feelings without pressure or judgment.