As a therapist, I have seen many clients who struggle with feelings of emptiness. One client in particular, whom I will call Ava, comes to mind.
Ava was a successful professional who had achieved everything she had ever wanted in her career. However, despite her achievements, she felt a profound sense of emptiness inside. She often found herself asking, “Is this all there is?”
Feeling empty can be confusing and overwhelming. It’s a feeling that can come and go or linger for extended periods, leaving you feeling disconnected from the world around you. But what does it really mean to feel empty, and how can you cope when this feeling becomes too much to handle? In this article, we’ll explore what it means to experience emptiness and offer some practical tips for coping.
What Does It Mean To Feel Empty?
Feeling empty is a common symptom of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It can also be a sign of burnout, loneliness, and a lack of purpose or meaning in life. Some common signs of feeling empty include:
- Feeling disconnected from others or the world around you
- Feeling a lack of energy or motivation
- Feeling like you’re just going through the motions without any real purpose or direction
- Feeling like you’re not experiencing emotions as deeply as you used to
- Feeling uncertain who you are or what you want out of life
What To Do When You Feel Empty?
If you’re feeling empty, it’s essential to care for yourself and seek support. Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Reach out for support:
Talk to a trusted friend or family member, a therapist, or a support group. It’s okay to ask for help.
2. Practice self-care:
Take time to do things that make you feel positive, like taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or listening to music.
3. Find meaning and purpose:
Think about what gives your life meaning and try to incorporate those things into your daily routine. This could be volunteering, pursuing a hobby, or setting goals for yourself.
4. Seek professional help:
If you’re struggling to cope with your feelings of emptiness, consider seeking professional help. A therapist, like us at Shirley Therapeutic and Consulting Services, can help you explore the underlying causes of your feelings and develop a plan for moving forward.
Feeling empty can be difficult, but it’s important to know you’re not alone. By seeking support, practicing self-care, and finding meaning and purpose in your life, you can cope with these feelings and move forward. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and there is hope for healing and growth.
Shirley Therapeutic and Consulting Services, LLC, is a diverse therapy clinic that can meet the needs of anyone. If you’d like to talk about your mental health, feel free to message us. In case of emergency or thoughts of suicide, please click on this link: https://www.sprc.org/states/georgia
** Unless otherwise noted, the names mentioned are not our clients’ real names, and we’ve asked their permission before sharing their story.
