Self-isolation has always been my coping mechanism. I've learned to deal with things by keeping to myself. Sometimes, I feel the need to disappear from everyone without saying a word. It's not that I don't enjoy being around people, but there are moments when life feels too overwhelming, and I just need to be alone. In those times, silence feels safer than explanations. Space helps me breathe, think, and slowly heal. I don't shut people out to hurt them, I do it to protect the little energy I have left, until I'm ready to return again.