Home»Blog for Introverts/HSPs»
 » 

Empathy Overwhelm? Finding Words and Answers Amidst Darkness

Empathy Overwhelm? Finding Words and Answers Amidst Darkness

As I have questioned my emotional ups and downs this week, wondering why I can’t think straight sometimes, I’m reminding myself right now that this is normal and healthy. Because something in the news hit me hard. This is grief. Maybe also empathy overwhelm.

I’m so grateful a dear friend reminded me today it’s not depression, it’s just a brain rewiring in process, and the message is “Please stand by. Upgrade in process.” Ha, that rings a bell. Allowing. Allowing.

{Trigger warning} I originally wrote this post below, in December 2012 after a school shooting. Ouch, it hurts still to say those words. I came back here today after yet another mass shooting in Florida to see how it might help me and others face this roller-coaster of emotions.

I offer this earlier post to you and myself once again, because it still feels right, on this hard day in June 2016. Here it is from 2012:


The hard-to-talk-about dark side needs a voice today.

I want to honor what is present, and hopefully offer something helpful.

We struggle to talk about the dark side. And I believe we must visit it sometimes—in small doses—if we want to live fully and heal what needs healing.

Today, I’m thinking of the heart-breaking school shooting tragedy, the unfathomable destruction of another hurricane, ongoing wars that we hardly discuss, and the countless losses people are carrying during the holidays.

I see people searching for answers and connection online. Or running from loss because it’s too big.

A friend who lost her son this year told me that it’s hard to know when to mention her son’s name to others, but he’s always on her mind and the weight is heavy as the family gathers for the holidays. Wondering whether to hang his Christmas stocking… is one of many unanswerable questions. My heart sinks as I imagine each question unfolding.

I don’t pretend to have the answers. But I will share what words I am finding helpful.

The practice of mindfulness helps us be aware of what is going on. Once we are able to see deeply the suffering and the roots of the suffering, we will be motivated to act, to practice. The energy we need is not fear or anger; it is the energy of understanding and compassion. Only understanding and compassion on a collective level can liberate us.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh

This applies to all the shadows inside ourselves, not just the big tragedies. Honoring our shadow side is a universal issue that affects our work and home lives.

I notice that sometimes we fight against our emotions and get depressed or stuck, and sometimes we allow emotions to move through us, as naturally as the coming and going of winter.

What I Am NOT Saying

I’m not saying we should dwell on the darkness.  In fact, take breaks, please.

Nor am I saying, “Focus on the silver lining.”  That is just another way of ignoring the shadow side.

I’m only saying, we need to look, at what is, the light and the dark. Sometimes in small doses. (Definitely pump the brakes so you don’t skid on the ice.)

I believe answers and healing arise from being present. I know it because it works for me. And I see it working for others too.

Empathy and Overwhelm

I know many people feel things very strongly, and truly it is a gift to be able to feel another’s pain and be with them. I have that natural empathy strength myself, and it used to overwhelm me at times.

If it overwhelms you to feel all the feelings around you, focus on self-care first. There’s no gain for anyone if you are lost in the process of trying to help others. I’m a sensitive soul (AKA highly sensitive person) and I’m so grateful that my mindfulness practice is helping me be present with my emotions and others’ without (usually) getting overwhelmed.

If you’re feeling the overwhelm today, take big breaks from the media spin. They’re in the business of creating frenzy and you’re already full.

Instead, talk to friends or wise community leaders who can be with you in it. Attend a vigil. Light a candle. Look to your sources of faith. Sometimes I think I don’t want to go to a vigil but when I go, I have found it surprisingly helpful and healing, just to be together.

Find your restorative places, so you can find solid ground, and when it’s time, you can reach for the stars again.

Val Nelson

Val Nelson

I’ve been a self-employed career/business/purpose coach since 2009. I help introverts and HSPs (like me) who want to make a difference — in a way that fits our practical needs too.
Val Nelson | Coaching | Groups | Courses | Newsletter | LinkedIn

I appreciate feedback, good and bad. You can comment below or email.

Leave a Comment

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Learn how introverts and HSPs make self‑employment work... without the hustle.

Get INsights to make work more meaningful and less stressful for INtroverts and highly sensitive people (HSPs).

Get work INsights for INtroverts & HSPs.

No time to read this right now?

Send it to yourself to read later! 

(Your email is not used for anything else.)

Search

Top Articles

my work is too draining

Is your career too draining?

It might not feel like it right now, but work can be energizing and fulfilling, even for introverts and HSPs. There is a way. Here are 3 paths to find your way to your right career path.

Read More »