She’s Emotionally Shut Down
Question: Dear Luise: I am in a committed relationship with a woman who is pretty shut down emotionally. She knows it’s from childhood abuse but she isn’t able to get past it. Is there any way I can help her? Thank you in advance for your help, if my question is one that you address. Michael
Answer: Dear Michael: I don’t have the background to offer you much but I will give you what comes to mind.
You can be supportive when your partner wants to work on her issues but they are hers. She’s really lucky to have someone who cares and who doesn’t fit the old patterns. That’s a plus.
I know it is hard to see her struggling and yet please keep reminding your self that it’s her jungle and they are her tigers. You picked her for a reason and we can only hope that it wasn’t to save her from herself. Do you see that it’s not your job?
Back her up if and when she wants professional help with her issues. And try to be as understanding as possible if she’s not ready for that yet. Look to see what you need to work on your self and get busy on that. Be a roll model.
Pay special attention to the areas in your life together that are rich and fruitful and let her know that you appreciate those deeply. Whether she can let that in or not, she needs to hear it and know you are sincere.
Whenever possible, lighten up, have fun and enjoy each other. It won’t make the problems go away but laughter is a great healer and lifts the spirit. Blessings, Luise
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