Emotional neglect is an insidious form of trauma that many people don’t fully understand. It’s not always about physical absence; it’s the lack of emotional support, validation, and connection. As a child, I learned to be independent and self-sufficient, but I also grew up with deep emotional scars. I didn’t know how to ask for help, how to nurture my emotional needs, or even that I was worthy of love and support.

Healing from emotional neglect is not a one-time event. It’s a long process of learning how to listen to yourself, acknowledging your pain, and realizing that your feelings matter. For me, therapy was a crucial step. It helped me see the deep impact of my past experiences and begin to address the emotional wounds I had buried for so long. It took years to learn how to trust others and to build my self-esteem, but each step forward was a victory.

One of the most important lessons I learned was the importance of self-love. I had to stop seeking validation from others and instead, give myself the compassion and care I had always craved. It’s a constant practice, and I’m still learning, but healing from emotional neglect is possible. It takes patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to face your past.