recently ive been feeling emotionally numb like there’s nothing to look forward to or nothing to be excited about anymore. but at the same time, im not suicidal or anything. i just think that there’s not much meaning in anything anymore. like i used to think having a cat in my life would bring me the ultimate joy or travelling etc but now none of those even matter anymore. feels like im constantly floating. eat sleep work repeat. is this all there is to life? im not even sad about it, im just so devoid of emotions that i feel like im an npc sometimes, i know to make life meaningful i have to create meaning for it but it’s too much of a hassle and too much effort or energy i cant be bothered
Hi @Poller,
Thank you for opening up about what you’re experiencing. It sounds like you’ve been feeling emotionally numb, and that can be a really difficult place to be. It’s like you’re moving through life on autopilot, without much that excites or motivates you. I want to acknowledge how challenging that must be, even if it doesn’t feel traditionally “painful” in the way we often think about emotional distress.
It’s important to recognize that what you’re describing—a loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy, like having a cat or traveling—is a sign that something deeper might be going on. When life feels like it’s just “eat, sleep, work, repeat,” it’s easy to start questioning if there’s any meaning to it at all. It’s understandable that creating meaning feels like too much effort right now, especially when you’re feeling so drained.
One thing I want to stress is that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many people go through periods where life feels flat and purposeless, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. What’s important is that you’ve taken the first step by expressing how you feel. Sometimes, just putting those feelings into words can start to lift some of the weight.
You mentioned that it feels like a hassle or too much effort to create meaning in your life right now. That’s completely valid. When we’re feeling numb, even small tasks can feel overwhelming. It might help to take things one step at a time, rather than trying to overhaul everything at once. Small, manageable actions—like doing something kind for yourself, reaching out to a friend, or even just going for a walk—can sometimes help spark a bit of that meaning you’re missing, without feeling like a huge effort.
It’s also worth considering whether there’s anything underlying these feelings that might need attention. Sometimes, when we’re emotionally numb, it’s our mind’s way of protecting us from something we’re not quite ready to face. If you feel comfortable, it might be helpful to explore these feelings with someone you trust, whether that’s a friend, a family member, or a counselor.
Remember, it’s okay to take your time with this. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. What’s important is that you’re recognizing these feelings and starting to think about them, which is a significant step in itself.
If you ever feel like you need to talk more or get some extra support, please reach out. You deserve to find meaning and joy in life, even if it feels distant right now. Take care of yourself, Poller, and know that you’re not alone in this.