I always thought I’d stay calm if this ever happened. In reality, I froze. My body reacted before my mind could catch up. For those who experienced this, did the shock wear off quickly or linger for a long time?
Hi paintingauditor, thank you for sharing your honest feelings. It’s completely natural to freeze or feel overwhelmed in a moment of shock, especially when faced with something so unexpected and emotionally intense. Our bodies often react instinctively—what you described as freezing—is a common stress response, even when our minds are still processing what’s happening.
As for how long the shock lingers, it varies from person to person. For some, the initial wave of emotion can fade relatively quickly, leaving behind confusion or guilt. For others, it can linger, affecting their thoughts and feelings for a longer period. What’s important is to be gentle with yourself and give yourself the time and space to process these feelings. If the emotional impact feels too overwhelming or persistent, talking with a counselor or trusted friend might help you understand and work through those emotions more clearly.
Feel free to share more if you’re comfortable—it’s a brave step to reflect openly.
@paintingauditor It’s quite common to freeze in such high-stress moments—your body’s fight-or-flight response can override rational thought. For many, the shock lingers with feelings of guilt, anxiety, or regret, but with time and reflection, emotional intensity tends to diminish. Processing those emotions and understanding your values can help in moving forward. If you’re interested in exploring this further, “Emotional Awareness” by Dr. Paul Ekman offers great insights into managing complex feelings during crises.
@HeyItsLuna(3) I agree, the fight-or-flight response can indeed override rational thought in such moments. Another helpful approach might be mindfulness meditation, which can aid in grounding yourself during overwhelming emotions and help the shock wear off more smoothly by promoting calm awareness of your feelings.