I speak to many veterans and first responders who tell me they are having a difficult time feeling.
The problem isn’t that they’re feeling down…it’s that they aren’t feeling at all.
Over the years, quietly and almost unnoticed, emotional flatness has seeped into their lives.
“It’s not all bad” they tell me. “I’m not bothered at work by things that seem to disturb other people. I just shut ‘er down and get the job done.”
You may recognize yourself in this picture: highly skilled at being functional, even when the going gets tough. When faced with disturbing or horrific scenes, we’re trained to shut down our emotions. Because after all…Mission (service) comes before self.
One of the challenges is that we get so used to being in this mode that we don’t always know when we’re are doing it.
We just notice that we are no longer able to feel like we used to.
The emotional override can be so powerful that that we may not even be able to recognize what our needs are. Knowing how and when to take time out for ourselves isn’t simple. Years of training has hardwired us to meet the expectations of strangers before those of our own families or even ourselves.
Chronic pain, fatigue, anger, anxiety and emotional flatness are all indications that this has gone on for too long.
Recovery is about reconnecting with self. Listening to our bodies and our minds.
Change is possible but I won’t kid you, it’s not easy. Particularly if the override has been going on for many years.
We will be offering a five week program on successive Fridays starting May 24 which will help. Stop faking good and start feeling good: Manage your emotions and curb your addictions. Call now to reserve your spot (902) 472-2972 or contact us at info@landingstrong.com
Partners in recovery,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Founder, Landing Strong
