When someone withdraws, the outside world may see silence,
distance, avoidance or a lack of interest. Beneath the
surface there may be emotional distress, depression,
overwhelm or an enormous effort simply to get through
the day.
Explore the iceberg. Select a feeling
to discover what might be happening beneath the surface,
what others may misunderstand and what could help.
WHAT OTHERS SEE
BELOW THE SURFACE · WHAT MAY BE HIDDEN
Understanding withdrawal
There may be more than you can see
Withdrawal is not always a choice to avoid people.
It can be a response to emotional distress, low mood,
exhaustion or feeling unable to cope with further demands.
Select any part of the iceberg to explore.
What this can feel like
Someone may want connection but feel unable to respond,
explain themselves or manage the energy that connection
requires.
What others may misunderstand
A lack of communication does not automatically mean
a lack of care, affection or interest.
What might help
Gentle, low-pressure contact, practical assistance,
patience and respect for personal boundaries can help.
What might be happening beneath your own surface?
Personal exploration
My Own Withdrawal Iceberg
You can add your own experiences and explore what
withdrawal means for you. Your feelings do not have
to match anyone else's.
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