I need help. I feel sick, constantly. It’s not a normal sickness though.. when others are sad, or something bad happens somewhere in the world, I get nauseous. Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I can’t breathe. Sometimes I get sick and my throat closes. Why am I like this? People get mad at me or yell and I just- cry. I don’t want to care about everything like I do. I want to be like others that can somehow look past people and focus on what’s happening with themselves not others. I wish I was more mean and nonchalant. I stopped eating meat because it started having the same effects. I don’t think I can’t live like this anymore. The world is killing me. I need help.



Answer :

I'm really sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It sounds like you're experiencing a strong empathic response to the emotions and events happening around you, and it's having a significant impact on your well-being. It's important to recognize that empathy can be a wonderful trait, but if it becomes overwhelming and affects your daily life negatively, it may be helpful to seek support.

One possible explanation for your heightened sensitivity could be that you have what is known as "empathic distress" or "empathic overload." This means that you feel the emotions of others very intensely, to the point where it impacts your own emotional and physical well-being. Empathic distress can be challenging to manage, but there are strategies and techniques that can help.

I strongly encourage you to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation. They can help you explore coping mechanisms to manage your empathic responses, set healthy boundaries, and develop strategies for self-care. Additionally, they can help you address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your distress.

In the meantime, here are a few suggestions that may be helpful:

1. Self-care: Make self-care a priority in your life. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could include hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness and meditation.

2. Boundaries: It's important to establish boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. Learn to recognize when you need to take a step back and give yourself space. It's okay to say no to certain situations or take breaks from news and social media if it's overwhelming.

3. Support network: Reach out to trusted friends or family members who can provide a listening ear and emotional support. Having someone who understands and validates your experiences can be immensely helpful.