feeling ignored

Ask a Therapist Coping
1

recently I’ve been feeling so ignored that I’m just numb and I don’t know why or what to do or how to tell anyone about it because everyone thinks my life is perfect and if I tell them then I’ll ruin what they think of me so I just dissociate from my friends and going out but I don’t know why or what’s causing it

2

Dear @kavya,

It’s incredibly tough to experience feelings of being ignored and numb, especially when it feels like there’s no one to confide in. You’re definitely not alone in this; many young people have grappled with similar emotions. Your feelings are entirely valid, and it’s important to acknowledge that. It can feel overwhelming when it seems like everyone perceives your life as flawless while internally, you’re battling. But please remember, your emotions matter, and seeking support is absolutely okay. Thank you for reaching out. Well done for taking a step in the right direction. :clap:t4: :clap:t4:

Feeling numb can often be a coping response your mind uses to protect you from overwhelming emotions. When situations become too stressful or painful to handle, your brain might try to shut down your emotional responses to help you get through the tough times. While this can provide temporary relief, it can also make it difficult to connect with others and enjoy life. Understanding that this numbness is a response to feeling overwhelmed, and it’s not about who you are as a person can be the first step in finding healthier ways to cope and eventually, addressing the root causes of your distress.

Here are a few things you might consider:

  1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s important to recognise that your feelings are valid. For example, you might say to yourself, “I feel ignored and numb right now, and that’s okay. These feelings are my mind’s way of telling me that something isn’t right. It’s okay to feel this way, and it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with me. It just means I need to pay attention to what my emotions are trying to tell me.” Recognising and accepting your feelings can be the first step toward understanding and addressing them. It can be helpful to use a feelings wheel to help name the emotions.

  2. Talk to Someone You Trust: Even though it might feel like everyone thinks your life is perfect, there’s usually someone who will understand. It could be a close friend, family member, or a trusted adult like a relative or a teacher. Opening up might be scary, but it can also be a huge relief.

  3. Journal Your Thoughts: Writing down your feelings can help you understand them better. It’s a way to express what you’re going through without worrying about others’ reactions. Here are a few journal prompts to get you started:

    • What are the situations or moments when I feel the most numb?
    • How did I feel right before I started feeling numb?
    • What do I wish I could say to the people around me about how I’m feeling?
    • If my numbness could speak, what would it say?

  4. Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, talking to a counsellor or therapist can make a big difference. They can help you figure out why you’re feeling this way and provide strategies to cope.

  5. Self-Care: Engage in activities that make you feel good. Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or simply taking a break to relax, taking care of yourself is crucial.

  6. Reflect on Your Needs: Think about what might be missing or what you need more of in your life. It could be more social interaction, a sense of purpose, or even just some time to rest. For example, you might realise you need more time with friends, so you could plan a regular meetup or join a club. If you feel a lack of purpose, consider volunteering or starting a new project that excites you. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try setting aside time each day to relax and unwind, whether it’s through reading, meditating, or taking a walk. Here are a few journal prompts to help uncover your needs:

    • What activities or people make me feel energised and happy?
    • When was the last time I felt truly content and what was I doing?
    • What aspects of my life feel unfulfilled or empty?
    • What small changes can I make to bring more joy and satisfaction into my daily routine?

To better understand your feelings, it might help to consider a few questions: When did you first notice the numbness? How often do you feel this way? Can you recall your earliest memory of feeling numb? Reflecting on these questions might give you some insights into your experiences and help you find ways to address them.

Reaching out for support shows a lot of courage, and it’s a big step towards feeling better. Your strength in facing these challenges and seeking help is commendable. It’s okay to not have everything figured out. Taking small steps to address your feelings can lead to big changes over time.

I hope the above has been helpful and if you’d like more resources or if there is anything else you’d like to share with us, please do. We’re here to listen to you, your feelings are valid and you matter! :grinning:

Take care,
CoolBreeze =)