Experiencing a peculiar sensation?
Life's major changes can often leave us feeling lost and disconnected from ourselves. Whether it's switching jobs, moving homes, or welcoming a new baby into the world, these transitions can be challenging and disorienting.
But don't worry, you're not alone. Changes in relationships, whether new or ending, can also cause uncertainty and doubt about one's identity. And let's not forget about hormonal changes, which can affect our mood, stress levels, appetite, and even sexual function, leaving us feeling like a stranger in our own bodies.
In such times, it's important to take a step back and focus on ourselves. Engaging in self-reflection through journaling can be incredibly beneficial for nurturing self-awareness. By writing down our thoughts and feelings, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and reduce stress. Journaling can also help us cope with traumatic events and process our emotions more effectively.
If feelings of being out of sorts persist, it may be necessary to seek help from a therapist or medical professional. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depersonalization-derealization disorder, and bipolar disorder can cause feelings of disconnection. An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can help manage these conditions and improve one's quality of life.
Reclaiming a sense of self can take time and intentional effort. Getting grounded can help bring us back to feeling like ourselves again. Grounding techniques, which use guided sensory or breathing activities, can help create a sense of calm. The exercise for grounding includes planting feet firmly on the ground, taking slow, deep breaths, relaxing shoulders, stating the date and time, commenting on current surroundings, reminding oneself of a safe space, and continuing to breathe and observe.
A 2015 study suggests that grounding techniques may help elevate mood. So, next time you're feeling lost, take a moment to focus on your senses and breathe.
Grieving the loss of a friend, family member, or pet can lead to feeling detached from oneself and prevent enjoyment of normal activities. If you suspect a health condition may be the cause of your feelings of disconnection, seeking advice from a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is recommended.
Lastly, actively creating time and space for hobbies, activities, or actions that bring you joy can help navigate back to a sense of self. Remember, it's okay to take a break and focus on yourself. After all, self-care is not selfish, it's essential.
Stress can affect our physical and mental health, behaviour, and sense of self, causing us to act or feel differently than usual. If you're feeling out of sorts due to stress, take a deep breath, practice some grounding techniques, and remember that it's okay to ask for help. You're stronger than you think, and you'll get through this.
