Intimacy In Relationship

How to overcome emotional intimacy issues

- Rachael Pace

You met someone you are absolutely crazy about, but now that you're in a relationship you feel hesitant to truly let your partner into your life. This is called a fear of emotional intimacy.

Emotional intimacy is essential for a healthy relationship. It's what connects couples, builds romantic friendships, and allows partners to truly trust one another. But letting someone into your life is scary, too. What happens if you let yourself be vulnerable with them and then they break your heart?

You will benefit greatly from opening yourself up to intimacy in relationships. But getting there isn't always easy, especially for people who are nervous about commitment. That's why we're giving you six tips for overcoming the fear of emotional intimacy.

Signs of emotional intimacy issues

It's completely natural for people to feel slightly uncomfortable when opening up and being vulnerable with a partner, but after some time and as trust in the relationship grows, partners should be more comfortable with one another.

However, if you've been with your spouse for a number of months now and still feel like you rather have a root canal than express your deepest emotions to your partner, it could be a sign that you are afraid of emotional intimacy in relationships.

Think you have a fear of intimacy? Here are some common signs and symptoms to consider.

Feeling anxious when opening up to others

Uneasy when expressing verbal or physical affection

Inability to communicate

Strong discomfort sharing personal goals

Fear of discussing the past

Inability to discuss past personal experiences

Difficulty in trusting others

Uncomfortable committing to long-term relationships or plans

Always making jokes to avoid discussing serious or deep topics

Having an emotional wall up

Have a reputation of "they are hard to get to know"