Emotional detachment is being unwilling or unable to connect emotionally with other people. In some cases, it can be a healthy way to protect oneself from unwanted drama, anxiety, or stress. For other individuals, it’s not voluntary. Instead, it’s the unfortunate outcome of negative experiences such as emotional trauma in the UK.
Not only can emotional detachment damage your interpersonal relationships, but it can also prevent you from experiencing meaningful connections.
Signs of Emotional Detachment
Individuals who are emotionally detached might show it as:
- difficulty creating or keeping relationships
- not paying attention to, or not showing interest about other people
- inability to be being caring or affectionate
- avoiding specific individuals, activities, or locations since they’re connected with a past emotional trauma
- not being able to provide emotional help to others
- reduced capability to express feelings
- trouble feeling empathy for another individual
- commitment problems in every type of relationship
- failure to prioritize important people in their lives
The problem with emotional detachment is that while it’s done as a form of self-protection, it usually does more harm than good. It can also worsen other mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
What triggers emotional detachment?
For many people, emotional detachment is a direct consequence of injury, a previous traumatic encounter, or abuse. The trauma can make the detachment spill over into relationships, making it hard to bond and connect with friends and family. Let’s take a closer look:
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Detachment can be a result of past abuse or emotional trauma
In many cases, emotional detachment is born out of severe childhood emotional trauma in the UK. Kids who are mistreated or abuse may become detached as a matter of survival. Eventually, this can lead to depression, the inability to reveal or share emotions, and various behavior issues.
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Detachment can be an effect of other mental health issues
Emotional detachment or “numbing” is also frequently a sign of other mental illnesses. Individuals with the following conditions are at greater risk:
- PTSD
- Post-partum depression
- bipolar disorder
- major depression
- personality disorders
Is there a treatment for emotional detachment?
The treatment for emotional detachment depends on why it’s happening in the first place.
For instance, if your doctor believes it’s caused by an underlying condition such as PTSD, they can first suggest treating the underlying condition before the detachment.
On the other hand, your physician may suggest talk therapy and other forms of emotional support if the detachment results from past trauma. These can significantly help you face the root causes of emotional detachment and slowly overcome it. Along the way, you can learn healthier ways to cope with negative experiences that formerly caused emotional numbing.
You Deserve to Be Emotionally Well
If you recognize yourself as emotionally detached, you’re most likely exhausted from that heavy burden all the time. We understand that you only want to protect yourself from getting hurt. At Talking for Therapy, expect a safe and confidential space where you can open up and never be judged. We are here to listen anytime— schedule a call today, and let’s talk about YOU.
