Flat numbness

Withdrawn

Strength 2 of 4

Pulled back into yourself and away from others, with little wish to talk, reach out or be reached, wanting mostly to be left alone.

In the body

  • Curling inwards, arms close to the body
  • Speaking little and quietly
  • Avoiding eye contact

Needs behind it

When these needs aren’t met

SafetySpaceUnderstanding

Softer and stronger

  1. Disconnected
  2. Distant
  3. Detached
  4. Withdrawn
  5. Empty
  6. Numb
  7. Shut down

Often confused with

Distant

Distant keeps others at a little remove while still taking part; withdrawn pulls right back into yourself and away from contact.

Shy

Shy hangs back while wanting to join in; withdrawn has pulled away and is not reaching out.

See also

Ashamed