This is the initial shock. Strange sensations. It feels like you’re losing control — but it’s just the brain’s reaction to overload.

 1. “I don’t understand what’s happening. Everything feels unreal.”

The brain turns off emotions and perception. It’s not you — it’s a temporary protective mode.

 2. “I feel empty. Everything is flat and quiet. Like I can’t feel anything.”

You’re not fully shut down, but not fully alive either. Recovery has started — but it’s still fragile.

 3. “I’m kind of living, but it’s all autopilot. Nothing feels real.”

You’re already on your way out. The brain is just checking — is it safe to feel again?

 4. “Sometimes it gets better, but I’m afraid it’ll come back.”

This is the living phase. The key now is not to get stuck in analysis. You’re here — and that means things are moving forward.

 5. “I’m almost fine, but I still think about it a lot.”

This isn’t a setback — it’s final integration. Don’t panic. This is part of the process.

 6. “It felt like it was over… but then it hit again.”