New Delhi : Emotional numbness is emerging as a growing but under recognised concern in India, with nearly 72% of individuals reporting signs of emotional disconnection, according to Dr Saroj Dubey, a Delhi based senior consultant gastroenterologist.
The concern is further reflected in related findings. Around 68% of people link their emotional health to digestive disorders, while one in three young adults report chronic emotional detachment, highlighting the wider impact across age groups. As per a recent report by PIB, In India, nearly 1 in 10 adults lives with a mental health disorder, yet the treatment gap remains alarmingly high, ranging between 70% and 92%, meaning most people do not receive the care they need.
Based on his clinical experience of over two decades, Dr Dubey points out that the issue goes beyond mental health and has a direct impact on physical wellbeing, particularly digestive health.
Speaking on the issue, Dr Saroj Dubey, Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist, Author and an Inspirational Speaker states, “Emotional numbness is India’s silent epidemic. When people disconnect from their feelings, it does not stay limited to the mind, it begins to show up in the body, especially in the gut. We are seeing more patients who appear normal on the surface but carry a deep sense of emotional shutdown within. Over time, this disconnect affects relationships, decision making and overall health. Many chronic digestive issues today have an underlying layer of unresolved stress and emotional suppression. What makes this concerning is that people often do not recognise it early, as they continue to function in their daily lives. This is a wake up call to look at health more holistically. Along with treatment, there has to be space for emotional awareness and simple practices that help people reconnect with themselves.”
He explains that the gut and brain are closely linked, and prolonged emotional suppression can influence gut function. A significant number of patients with conditions such as IBS, acidity and gut inflammation often report a history of unresolved stress.
The trend is being observed across age groups, especially among young adults, where emotional detachment is becoming increasingly common. While awareness around mental health has improved, emotional numbness continues to remain largely unrecognised. Dr Dubey emphasises the need for a more integrated approach, where emotional wellbeing is given importance alongside physical health, both in clinical practice and in everyday life.
About Dr Saroj Dubey
Dr Saroj Dubey is a Delhi based senior consultant gastroenterologist at Kailash Hospital, Noida, with over 25 years of clinical experience. Alongside his medical practice, he has spent the past several years working as an author, speaker, and mindfulness guide, focusing on mental health, mindfulness, and emotional wellbeing.
Drawing from decades of patient care and personal experiences, his work explores the connection between physical health and emotional awareness. His sessions and talks centre on helping individuals develop greater presence, acceptance, and resilience in the face of stress and uncertainty.
Dr Dubey has spoken across medical conferences, academic institutions, and corporate platforms. His TEDx talk, The Art of Doing and Being, reflects his approach of balancing action with inner stillness. He also conducts regular corporate and public sessions on stress, mindfulness, and emotional balance.
He holds an MBBS from Christian Medical College, Vellore, an MD in Medicine, and a DM in Gastroenterology from G B Pant Hospital, New Delhi.