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We all have times when we feel overwhelmed, and in such instances, we may choose to disconnect from others for a short while, giving ourselves time to reflect, regroup, and recalibrate.
However, for some individuals, prolonged and persistent periods of withdrawal can hint at more serious underlying issues which need to be addressed.
In many cases, withdrawal is a natural response to feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, fearful, angry or rejected. Difficult situations, environments, or relationships can activate these emotions which, in turn, drive our behaviour, resulting in us withdrawing – physically, emotionally and socially.
Download our Cycle of Influence poster.
Withdrawal can also be a reaction to trauma: individuals who have been abused or neglected, and who suffer from C-PTSD or PTSD, might use detachment as a means of survival, habitually self-isolating to protect themselves from further suffering.
Download our Staff Meeting in a Box: Trauma-Informed Support.
Over time, withdrawal can lead to total isolation and loneliness, where individuals become completely disconnected from others. Not only is a person’s mental health at stake here: loneliness can lead to other grave problems too, such as substance abuse, self-harm and debilitating health conditions.
With such serious ramifications, it is essential to identify why an individual is becoming withdrawn so that we can better meet their needs and avoid a situation where their mental, emotional and physical health is at risk.
How do we know when someone is becoming withdrawn? While every individual is different and withdrawal can manifest in many ways, there are a number of common warning signs to be aware of and alert to:
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