Ask a therapist > Anxiety > Why do I feel like I am completely void of any emotion?

Why do I feel like I am completely void of any emotion?

Most of the time I don't know how I feel it's like i'm completely empty which makes me unable to respond to people when they search for emotional support as I feel kind of awkward not being able to have empathy for them and my family. Sometimes the only thing that I can feel is anger and I usually listen to music depending on my mood to feel something because i'm unable to on my own
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Asked by Lois
Anxiety
Answered
11/24/2022

Hello Lois,

 

I would like to start off by congratulating you for taking the first step to seeking professional support. At first it can be a little intimidating to reach out and become vulnerable about your needs. I do not take your time or efforts for granted. I am honored to offer you some support/relief.

 

What I am hearing you say, is that you are wanting to connect from an emotional standpoint, but it is challenging to do so. There are many reasons why a person may not feel emotions or unable to offer emotional support to others. For instance, you may experience some level of depression or anxiety. I would suggest that you connect with a mental health professional so that they could help you reconnect with your feelings. The mental health professional will be able to teach you coping skills that will help you to be more present and not detach from your body through avoidance or by shutting down.

 

Would it be possible for you to create an emotion diary for about a week or two? You would include the date, emotional event, and your response to the emotional event. This would determine how frequent you are experiencing emotional numbness.

 

You mentioned that you listen to music to feel. which lets me know that you can feel emotions to some degree, your body is wanting to respond to what it can control.

 

Has there been any new changes in your life? How is your sleeping routine? Are you resting regularly? Experiencing a lack of sleep will make you feel like you are emotionless. Once you have answered the questions listed above, it would be a great idea to fill a mental health professional in on your answers so that they can further support you.

 

Until you meet with a mental health professional, I would suggest that you consider reducing your stress, allow your body to get the rest it needs, continue to listen to your music and engaging in things that you enjoy.

 

Please note that you are not alone, and continued support is obtainable.

 

Be well,

Felicia Goins, LPC