fear of intimacy

Fear of intimacy is the anxiety or discomfort associated with forming close, meaningful connections with others. It often stems from concerns about vulnerability, trust, or past negative experiences, leading individuals to avoid deep emotional closeness. This fear can manifest as difficulty sharing feelings, maintaining relationships, or becoming emotionally dependent. It’s not about disliking others, but rather a protective response to perceived risks of being hurt or betrayed. Recognizing this fear can help individuals work towards building healthier, more trusting relationships, often with the support of therapy or self-awareness practices.