Intimacy is a staple of human existence. Our ability to be close to one another, socialize, have friendships, relationships, and romantic partnerships is based on our ability to be intimate. Often, the word intimacy has the connotation of sexual intimacy, which is one of its many forms. Another important form of intimacy is emotionally intimacy, which might otherwise be described as our inherent ability to let someone else “in”. Emotional vulnerability is challenging for many people because the fear of being “hurt” is real. Few populations experience the realness of that fear than those who have experienced trauma in their lifetimes. When someone has experienced trauma, they have often experienced the worst of human behavior. Whether their trauma was intentional and direct or unintentional and indirect, that person was directly affected. Getting close to another person again with the new knowledge of what people are capable of is intimidating. Forming relationships with people who cannot understand the trauma of experiencing some of life’s most difficult moments is also intimidating. Moments of intimidation like these are isolating, saddening, and full of fear. People living while coping with trauma often feel like they are on the outside, different from others, and separated from the ability to be intimate on any level.
Having “intimacy issues” is somewhat of a buzz-term but is a significant problem for forming relationships. People can appear “emotionally unavailable” or present other behaviors that keep new people at a distance. Other signs of intimacy issues are more intimate to the individual, making them less detectable to someone else around them.
Perfectionism: Perfectionism is related to many different issues which are related to many different life experiences. Intimacy can be avoided in the quest for perfection. Likewise, the fear of not being perfect enough can also inhibit intimacy.Sexuality: Intimacy issues don’t always prevent sexual engagements, though it can. Completely avoiding sexual intimacy is also avoiding emotional intimacy. However, emotional intimacy isn’t always present in sexual intimacy. A common intimacy issue is being involved in sexual activity strictly for sexual gratification rather than being intimate with a partner. Emotional Difficulties: Various behaviors for avoiding emotional development, emotional confrontation, and emotional resolution are signs of intimacy issues. Not getting emotionally involved in any kind of relationship in anyway indicates a deep need to avoid emotional intimacy
The Guest House in Ocala, Florida is the safe, serene, compassionate place you need to heal from trauma. Our residential programs welcome you exactly where you are in your life in relation to trauma, addictions, and other issues. From an organic lifestyle to clinical excellence, our programs help you find the freedom, peace, and hope you deserve. It’s time to heal. Call us today for information: 1-352-812-2780