Feelings Quote by Augusten Burroughs
““And then just as suddenly, I felt absolutely nothing. It was like a door quickly opened, showing me what horrible feelings I had inside, and then slammed shut again so I wouldn't have to actually face them. In many ways I felt I was living the life of a doctor in the ER. I was learning to block out all emotions in order to deal with the situation.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Running with Scissors, Augusten Burroughs, 2002
The narrator describes emotional numbness as a coping mechanism, likening it to a door that briefly opens then shuts to avoid confronting pain.
In simple terms: He blocks feelings to function.
Key Takeaway
Allow yourself safe spaces to process emotions.
Themes
mental health
coping
emotional numbness
self‑protection
Mood
introspective
somber
hopeful
Type
psychological
personal narrative
When to use this quote
- therapy
- high‑stress jobs
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
trauma response
avoidance
Questions to Reflect On
- What emotions are you avoiding?
- How can you safely face them?
A Different Perspective
Numbness can hinder authentic healing and connection.
