If you don’t have friends or family near you, participate in local social activities, volunteer, and make some new friends.

A diagnosis can help shed light on any other problems that may be occurring. Treatment can give you hope and help you feel more connected to your emotions.

A therapist may have you try psychotherapy as well as other practices like meditation, self-hypnosis, focusing, and centering. These practices can help you relax, soothe yourself, and allow emotions to flow in a manageable manner. Find a therapist by calling your insurance company or a local mental health clinic. You can also get a recommendation from a friend, family member, or physician.

Let your physician know how you feel and that you think it might be related to the medication. Be specific in describing how you feel. For example, you might say, “Since taking the medication, I feel emotionally disconnected and don’t feel like I can connect with myself or other people. ”

If you feel lonely, acknowledge that you feel lonely. Notice what this feels like in your body and how it affects your mood, thoughts, and behaviors. If you’re purposefully closing your emotions out to protect yourself, don’t rush the process. This can overwhelm you and lead to panic.

Let your emotions out instead of bottling them up or pretending they don’t exist. If talking about your feelings helps, confide in a good friend or see a therapist.

For example, start noticing how many things are blue or yellow. Listen closely for sounds and noises. Connect with the present moment.

If you don’t know where to start, begin with prompts that require some thoughtful reflection or emotional component.

Even if you don’t want to do activities at first, try them. You might feel more connected once you start.

Focus on making your thoughts more positive. Because your thoughts influence your emotions, having more positive thoughts can help you connect emotionally.

Don’t turn to mind-numbing activities like watching television or playing video games to deal with stress. [17] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Cope with your stress in a positive way that enhances your life.

These creative and fun hobbies will help you relax and cope during times when you are having a hard time with emotions. They help you to remain active and avoid isolation, and some of them, such as painting, drawing, or writing can be used as a form of self expression to release pent up emotions. Doing artistic or creative activities tells your mind that you are taking care of yourself. It allows you to safely process emotions you may be experiencing or have been suppressing. Share your creativity with those friends or family members whom you feel closest and most comfortable with. [18] X Research source

Taking care of your body can help you stay on a path to recovery and encourage your body to heal.

If you struggle with substances or alcohol addiction, seek help. Find a treatment center or work with a therapist.