Some people struggle to express emotions not because they don’t care, but because they can’t. Alexithymia is a condition where individuals have difficulty recognizing, processing, and describing emotions.
What is Alexithymia?
People with alexithymia often seem distant or unemotional, but the truth is they lack the words to express what they feel. It’s not about not having emotions—it’s about struggling to identify and articulate them.
How to Communicate with Someone Who Has Alexithymia
- Ask Direct Questions – Instead of “How do you feel?”, try “What thoughts are coming up for you?” đź§
- Help Connect Emotions to Experiences – Instead of expecting deep emotional responses, focus on how events make them think.
- Be Patient & Understanding – Their emotions exist, but they may struggle to verbalize them. Give them space to process.
Why This Matters
Understanding alexithymia can improve relationships by fostering patience and recognizing that emotional expression varies between individuals. If your partner, friend, or colleague struggles with expressing emotions, changing the way you communicate can make all the difference.
Want to Improve Communication in Your Relationships?
If you or someone you know struggles with emotional expression, I can help. Book a coaching session today, and let’s work together to build better communication skills. Click here to schedule a session!
