I think I have emotional numbness

[Obey]

Hi,

i feel like all this year my emotions have disappeared and I am not my normal self.

i am not sure if it is just COVID and not seeing my friends or anyone I love or if it is something that has been manifesting for a while.

any help is appreciated

[Sophie_M]

Hey Obey, thanks for joining us here on the Beyond Blue forums. We're so sorry to hear that you haven't been feeling like yourself this year. We can imagine these thoughts would cause alot of distress and alarm. It sounds like it could be a combination of the reasons you suggested. Being isolated at home with minimal contact from friends and family can take a great emotional toll on our mental wellbeing. 

You might find it useful to look at some of the resources on our Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service. The following articles might be particulary helpful:

• Ways to look after your mental health amid the coronavirus pandemic
• Managing your mental health – the importance of establishing a routine
• Managing your mental health – why staying connected is so important

Our counsellors are also available 24/7 by phone on 1300 22 4636 or on Webchat 3pm-12am AEST on our website: www.beyondblue.org.au/getsupport if you'd ever like to talk through these feelings. One of our professional mental health counsellors at our Support Service will give you support and point you in the right direction for help in your area.
 

[smallwolf]

Hi and welcome to beyond blue. just to add a little to what Sophie_M replied....

I don't know if this relates to you but a little story about me - I would work from for too many years. The effects of this were social isolation, loneliness that would lead to depression etc. So what Sophie_M said above happened to me. That is one part of it. I now work in an office space. I still have a sense of emotional detachment and things which I feel I should have some sort of emotional reaction to .... well, I don't!

So the question is... am I emotionally numb? Listening to song for the first time might evoke a lump in my throat and that is because I connect with that song. Listen to it two more times there will be no reaction. Movies and books don't get me excited. Regarding the death of friend, I was business-like. I spoke about this with my psych ... it could be age related, medication related, experiences etc. Very hard to say.

Perhaps you could give an example of situations in which you feel this way.

If you want to chat some more I am around.

Tim

[Scott_C]

Hello Obey,

I can’t offer you much help but can empathize as I feel the same way too. I can’t feel love, joy, enjoyment or even sad. I do often feel angry but mood is mostly flat. I think it prob is part of depression. Go to a GP and talk about it, I’ve done it and I’m kinda receiving help.