There are a few forms of issues that sometimes hamstring couples and cause them problems in their relationships, and the presence of emotional blocks (or emotional barriers, as they’re known in some circles) is a good example. Possible in both the conscious and subconscious realm, emotional blocks often contribute to major wedges in relationships – but can also be addressed in positive ways.
At Sunrise Solutions, we’re happy to offer the very best counseling services in Sandy and Draper, including marriage and couple’s counseling for any kind of relationship issue you’re dealing with. What are emotional blocks, what are some of the common types that may interfere with relationships, and what can you do to both recognize and manage these barriers? Here are some basic tips.
Defining Emotional Blocks
Before we dig into some of the specific types of emotional blocks, it’s important to understand that these are psychological roadblocks. They can be conscious or unconscious – meaning they may exist without you even being aware of them, but can still interfere with your relationship in a negative way.
Think of emotional barriers as metaphorical walls – they can keep you and your partner at a distance, making it difficult to truly connect. It’s important to recognize the signs of emotional blocks as early as possible, and be proactive in addressing them before they cause any additional damage.
Common Types Of Emotional Blocks
Here are some of the most common types of emotional blocks that couples may encounter:
- Fear: This could be fear of commitment, fear of intimacy, or any other kind of fear that keeps a couple distant.
- Anxiety: Anxiety can also keep couples apart and inhibit them from being emotionally open with each other.
- Jealousy: Jealousy is an emotion that can get in the way of relationships and cause all kinds of issues.
- Unresolved trauma: If a partner has a past trauma that hasn’t been addressed properly, it can lead to emotional walls – both conscious and unconscious.
- Trust concerns: If one or both partners are not completely trusting of each other, it can put a strain on the relationship and lead to emotional blocks.
How Emotional Blocks Impact Relationships
The ways in which emotional barriers impact relationships can vary quite widely. For some couples, it could be a minor irritant that gets in the way but doesn’t prevent them from enjoying each other’s company. For others, however, it can be much more serious.
For some couples, emotional blocks can contribute to feelings of isolation and separation – making it difficult for the couple to connect on an emotional level. It can also lead to resentment and anger, as one or both partners feel that the other is withholding something from them.
With the right counseling and therapeutic techniques, though, these kinds of issues can be addressed successfully.
Recognizing Emotional Blocks
In many cases, one of the most important things to do when it comes to emotional blocks is simply recognizing them. This can mean actively looking for the signs, or perhaps just taking an honest and open look at both yourself and your partner.
Pay attention to how you feel when around each other – are there times when you feel like there’s a distance between you? If so, take some time and really think about what might be causing it.
It can also help to talk openly with your partner. Ask your partner if they’re feeling any kind of emotional block, and see if you can come up with an open and honest way to address the issue together. You might be surprised by how much an open, straightforward conversation can do to help.
Managing Emotional Blocks
If you and your partner have identified some emotional blocks in your relationship, the next step is to work together on managing them. This could mean anything from talking openly about how you feel and why, setting clear boundaries that are comfortable for both of you, or seeking outside help from a therapist or counselor.
However you choose to approach it, this should be a mutual process. It’s important that both partners feel like they’re being heard and understood – that way, the conversation can be productive and help lead to a stronger relationship in the end.
At Sunrise Solutions, we’re here to provide you with the very best counseling services in Sandy and Draper. Reach out today for more information or to get started with marriage or couples counseling, or any of our other services. We look forward to hearing from you!