self-isolation has always been my coping mechanism. i often get the urge to disappear from everyone without a trace. not because i hate people, and not because i want attention, but because sometimes being around anyone feels too heavy when my mind is already full. when life gets overwhelming, i distance myself, stay quiet, and deal with everything alone, even when i know that's not always the healthiest thing to do. disappearing feels easier than explaining what i'm feeling. but the truth is, sometimes i'm not asking to be chased. i'm just hoping someone notices i'm not okay, even when i say nothing at all.