Am I Avoidant or Just Scared? Understanding the Roots of Emotional Withdrawal

Many of my clients come to trauma therapy wondering if something is "wrong" with them because they struggle to stay emotionally present—especially in close relationships. But emotional withdrawal isn't a flaw. It’s a learned survival response, often shaped by early relationships and nervous system adaptations that made emotional distance feel safer than vulnerability.

If you’re wondering whether you’re emotionally avoidant—or simply carrying old protective strategies that no longer serve you—this post is for you.