Emotional Blunting

Emotional blunting refers to a reduction or dampening of emotional responses, where individuals feel less intense feelings such as joy, sadness, anger, or empathy. It often occurs as a side effect of certain medications, such as antidepressants, or in mental health conditions like depression or schizophrenia. While it can help reduce overwhelming emotions, it may also make daily experiences feel less vivid or connected, potentially impacting interpersonal relationships and overall well-being. It’s different from feeling numb; rather, emotions are present but less reactive or intense.