This is an interesting discussion. So you exhibit a delayed reaction. Let us see what the internet says about this trait.
One article says:
What is a Delayed Emotional Response?
An emotionally delayed response is a reaction to an event that occurs in the present, but the emotional responses are not felt or expressed until some time later. It can be experienced by anyone, regardless of age or gender. It is often associated with trauma and can be a sign of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
When individuals experience a delayed emotional response may not be able to process their feelings or emotions appropriately and promptly. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. It can also manifest in physical symptoms such as headaches.
How can you tell if someone is experiencing a delayed emotional response?
One of the most common signs of a delayed emotional response or Delayed Trauma Response is an inability to process and express emotions in a timely manner. When someone is experiencing it, they may appear to be “frozen” or “stuck” at the moment. They may be unresponsive and unable to express their feelings about what happened or how they are feeling in the present moment.
Other signs that someone may be experiencing Delayed Trauma Response include changes in behavior such as avoidance of certain activities, avoiding eye contact, difficulty expressing emotion verbally, increased aggression and irritability, hypervigilance, extreme sensitivity to reminders of the trauma, and flashbacks.
People experiencing Delayed Emotional Response may also have difficulty sleeping, numbness or disconnection from others, social withdrawal, self-loathing and guilt, loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, and difficulty concentrating.
Causes of emotionally delayed response
Trauma: Delayed responses are often the result of traumatic events, such as witnessing a crime or accident, experiencing abuse or neglect, and going through war or natural disasters.
Stressful experiences: Other stressful life experiences can also lead to delayed emotional responses, such as relationship breakups, job loss, illness, or financial struggles.
Brain chemistry: It can also be caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Genetic predisposition: It may also be the result of a genetic predisposition to anxiety or depression, making it more challenging to cope with stressful experiences.
Delayed emotional responses in children
Some kids take a long time to feel emotions about things that happened. This is called a delayed emotional response. This delayed response to trauma can be caused by something terrible, like a car accident or war. Kids who have delayed responses may act differently than other kids, and they may not be able to express their feelings very well. It’s essential to get help from a grown-up if you think you might have this problem.
This article continues to dive into this subject and is available at:
Why We Experience Emotional Delayed Responses
Does any of this apply in your case?