Shutting down emotionally can be a coping mechanism in responding to intense stressors of life. According to a survey by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 5 Australians experience a mental disorder. Imagine navigating the ship of life through stormy seas and suddenly you decide it’s time to dock at the harbour of “Shutting down emotionally”. But brace yourself, because coping with emotions isn’t as straightforward as following Google Maps. It’s more like making your way through a maze in the dark with an unstable flashlight that keeps flickering. So, how do you know when you have set sail on this expedition of emotional shutdown? Hang on tight because we are about to commence a quest of self-discovery down the twisting pathways of emotional shutdown.
What is emotional numbness?
Emotional numbness is a mental health condition where an individual feels disconnected or unable to observe their emotions fully. It is like wrapping yourself in thick layers of emotional bubble wrap— it guards you from the ups and downs of life. It’s the sensation of feeling detached from your emotions just like watching a movie of your life rather than actively being involved. It can manifest as sadness, feeling distant, lack of joy, and losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, leaving you feeling dull and isolated. It is usually a defence mechanism, a way to cope with intense emotions or trauma. While it may provide short-term relief, prolonged emotional shutdown can interfere with relationships and personal growth. It is important to recognise the signs of emotional numbness and seek support to deal with core issues and foster better coping skills.Why people emotionally shut down?
People may shut down emotionally for various reasons. Let’s check them out.- Trauma: Past traumatic events or disturbing incidents can lead individuals to shut down emotionally as a psychological defence to protect themselves from further pain.
- Fear: Discomfort with being emotionally exposed or fear of being judged can lead people to shut down emotionally.
- Stress: Severe stress from relationships, work, or day-to-day challenges can cause emotional shutdown as a coping strategy with the pressures of life.
- Mental health issues: Mental health conditions such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), or depression can also cause an emotional shutdown.
- Overwhelm: When faced with a rush of feelings, some people may shut down emotionally as a coping mechanism to regain a sense of control. Sometimes, it is a reaction to frequent rejection or betrayal where shutting down feels safer.
How to tell if you are shutting down emotionally?
Understanding if you are shutting down emotionally demands paying attention to your thoughts, actions and behaviours. Here are some signs:- Difficulty in expressing emotions- If there is a decrease in emotional potency or if you find it difficult to express your feelings, it could be a symptom of emotional numbing.
- Feeling disconnected- If you start feeling disconnected from yourself, friends, family, or your surroundings, like you are going through the motions mindlessly, it could be a sign of emotional detachment
- Irritability- Instead of addressing emotions, if you get angry or irritable as a coping strategy, it may be a sign.
- Increased isolation- If you withdraw from social interactions and prefer to be alone, it could signal emotional withdrawal.
- Avoidance of emotional situations- If you start avoiding situations or conversations that could trigger emotional responses, consider it a red flag towards emotional repression.
- Difficulty making decisions- If you are unable to make decisions or take action because you are emotionally disconnected from the situation, take it as a sign of emotional disengagement.
- Numbing behaviour- If you find yourself engaging in activities such as drugs, alcohol, oversleeping, or overeating to numb feelings and emotions, it could indicate emotional numbness.
- Physical symptoms- Emotional shutdown can exhibit symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, or headaches.
Healthy ways to cope with dissociation
Healthy ways to cope with dissociation include the following:- Deep breathing: Practise deep breathing exercises to help manage your nervous system and reestablish calmness.
- Physical activity: Maintain a regular exercise regime to unwind and alleviate tension and stress, which in turn can reduce dissociation.
- Mindfulness and meditation: Involve yourself in mindfulness or meditation to deepen awareness of your body and surroundings.
- Build a safe space: Foster a protective physical or mental space where you feel secure and grounded. This could be a homely corner or a healing visualisation you can access when required.
- Connect with helpful people: Enfold yourself with supportive friends, family, or support groups who can foster insight and encouragement.
- Self-care: Give precedence to self-wellness and indulge in self-care activities such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, or doing what you like.
- Limit stressors: Determine and mitigate sources of stress in your life, as high stress levels can aggravate dissociation.
When to get help?
It’s imperative to seek help during the emotional shutdown when it noticeably influences your ability to cope with daily tasks or maintain healthy relationships. If you are unable to express or observe emotions, avoid social interactions, or experience physical symptoms such as headaches or fatigue, it may be time to seek help. Moreover, if an emotional shutdown is a reaction to past trauma or accompanied by other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression, seeking professional guidance is essential. Remember seeking help is a sign of strength and there are people to help you. Opt for a Mental Health Care Plan to get guided help and zero cost. So, when you find yourself emotionally shutting down, take a moment to breathe and reflect. Shutting down might feel like a relaxing hideaway, but life should be experienced in vivid hues and not in muted shades of grey. So, take charge of your emotions and live every moment to its fullest. After all, the show must go on!
Consult an Online Doctor in 15 mins
Speak to an Australian-registered health practitioner
Telehealth appointment available 24 hours a day, all year round
Request scripts, med certs, referrals or get medical advice
Related Articles
Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
