Is it normal to feel numb about a traumatic experience?

93% Normal
8 Comments

I had a traumatic experience happen several years ago and feel guilty that I don't feel worse about it, since it included the loss of a loved one in a very tragic way. When it first happened I was very upset of course, but ever since then I've felt very numb about it, almost as if I have no emotions about it now. I pretty much immediately quit thinking about it any time I'm reminded of it, like my brain tries to block it out.

I don't really feel like I'm harboring anything I need to get out and absolutely hate talking about it, especially since the events leading up to it make my deceased family member look bad even though he was actually a great person who just had dementia (not going into details). I just feel guilty that I don't feel more sadness and sorrow about it.

Voting Results
93% Normal
Based on 15 votes (14 yes)
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Comments ( 8 )
  • Doesnormalmatter
    4 years ago

    Seems like a normal reaction to me. I can't really relate but I'll say normal.

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  • Skarmatic
    4 years ago

    Yes it's normal, but it's not fun either. I can somewhat relate (not the same of course). It's a coping mechanism, but it deprecates your ability to cope with it and talk about it with the feeling of possibly coming off as weak or legitimately getting annoyed with yourself for thinking about it (not sure if that made sense). Trauma works in weird ways, sometimes it leaves for a bit and comes back and it feels as if you're reliving the situation again. Trauma never really goes away, it's the coping part that helps to deal with it and to continue living the best you can.

    I know it's said a lot over time and time again, but seeking counseling can be a great opportunity to learn the technicalities of what's going on. It gives you a professional perspective on a situation that you might not have even thought of; giving your mind peace and validating what you're feeling which could be a huge part of what your missing.

    I wish you the best journey.

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  • RoseIsabella
    4 years ago

    Sounds like a coping mechanism.

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  • Ellenna
    4 years ago

    Why feel guilty about something you can't change? If the guilt is bothering you to any extent, maybe counselling would be a good idea.

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    • Anonymous Post Author
      4 years ago

      I guess I just feel bad that I don't have much emotion about it anymore, like that means there's something wrong with me and I lack empathy.

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      • Ellenna
        4 years ago

        Again, I suggest you seek counselling so you can let this go and move on.

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  • Grunewald
    4 years ago

    Let yourself exist. You don't need to settle with what you see in yourself, but patiently accepting that you are what you are right now and waiting it out, is itself part of moving forward.

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    • Bazinga
      4 years ago

      Meh. It's all about pain. Feeling numb is a way to block the pain. Sounds like she feels guilty about blocking the pain. Gotta get back to dealing with the original condition.

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