Episode 358: Why He Shuts Down When Emotions Show Up

Sometimes relationships fall into a confusing pattern.  Things feel connected for a while. Conversations are easier. You feel hopeful.  And then emotions show up: hurt, stress, vulnerability, and suddenly the other person shuts down. Many partners assume this means the person doesn’t care. But often what’s happening is something different. In this episode, Jackie talks about a pattern she sees frequently in couples called emotional cycling — when someone can access connection for a time but struggles to sustain it when emotional intensity increases. The good news is that emotional capacity can be learned.  Real intimacy doesn’t happen when emotions are avoided.  It happens when two people learn how to face them together.  Listen wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.speakpipe.com/ThanksForSharing Have a question or something you’d like me to talk about in a future episode? You can call the show and leave a voicemail or send me an email — I love hearing from you, and your feedback helps shape these conversations.  https://thanksforsharingpodcast.my.canva.site/thanks-for-sharing-links #relationshiphealth #emotionalintelligence #couplestherapy #attachmenthealing #mentalhealthpodcast #emotionalgrowth #relationships #healingrelationships