Alex's Answer
The things I’ve seen on the internet have made me feel numb, what do I do?
Your Question
I feel numb, since I was about 10 I’ve been exposed to many things on the internet such as porn and very disturbing videos like people cutting their self, murder, suicide and death. It’s now got to the point that I dont feel scared anymore, I don’t feel anything. What should I do?
Answer
Hi there,
Thank you for sharing this with us; a burden shared is a burden halved. We are sorry to hear that you have seen such disturbing content online and that you have been made feel so uncomfortable to the point that your brain is protecting you with a feeling of numbness.
First, are you still searching for and watching this type of content? If so, consider blocking the websites that you find yourself viewing this content on. Do you have any trusted adult in your life that you could talk to about this? Perhaps they could help you apply blocking software on your devices. You have a right to use and enjoy the internet in a safe way, you can find more tips on staying safe online here – https://www.childline.ie/how-to-protect-yourself-from-inappropriate-content/.
Feeling numb is a fight, flight or freeze response and is your brains way of responding to a threat. You can activate your feelings by practising some grounding exercises, have you ever tried any before? For example, the 5,4,3,2,1 exercise can be done anywhere by closing your eyes, taking a deep breath, opening your eyes and acknowledging; 5 things you can see, 4 things you can feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell and 1 thing you can taste.
Another exercise that maybe helpful is to try and take notice of your feet connecting with the floor, how does this make you feel? Or try holding an object in your hand while really focusing on it, taking in its weight, its texture.
It’s important to remember you’re not alone in this, Childline are always here to listen when you need to talk about whatever is on your mind. If you ever feel like chatting to us, you are very welcome to call anytime on 1800 66 66 66 or you can also contact us online: www.childline.ie. All of our services are free, available 24 hours a day and are confidential and non-judgmental.
Hopefully, this reply will be helpful to you and please know you’re welcome to contact us again if you need to talk.
Take care,
Alex.