
Emotional distance between partners can cause each partner to feel isolated and alone in the relationship, rather than supported and encouraged by a significant other. There are as many reasons for emotional distance as there are unique relationships, and the important next step is to find the root cause and address the problem together.
Step 1
Broach the subject with your partner. Sometimes one partner may feel that the relationship is not close enough, while the other partner might not see it that way, note relationship advisers at TwoOfUs.org. Your partner may not be as verbal as you are, or he might see the “distance” as a comfortable one borne out of settling in to the relationship. Perhaps, though, he will agree with you that there is an emotional distance between you. Explain how you feel and ask him to work on it with you.
Step 2
Make time to connect with each other. Many people fall into a pattern of working often and late, so that they end up neglecting their relationships because of the energy spent on daily routines. Emotional disconnection often results from social isolation, which can reinforce negative self-perceptions and erode relationships. Set up a weekly date, or plan to eat dinner together more often. Start slow by talking to each other about the little things, before working your way up to deep issues.
Step 3
Learn the origins of your isolation and emotional disconnection, recommend therapists at GoodTherapy.org. Causes might include infidelity, addiction, or other negative behaviors that lead to mistrust and a breakdown in communication. Try to talk to your partner about why the disconnection has occurred. Work on forgiveness and moving past the source of your pain.
Step 4
Avoid the touchy issues and let go of your own baggage. You may need to talk about the origins of your emotional disconnection, but after forgiveness and a mutual pact to move on, you shouldn’t keep harping on the issue. Don’t push your partner’s buttons or ask for constant reassurance about your own insecurities. Try to keep conversations with your partner positive, to encourage repeated close interaction.
Step 5
Make an appointment with a therapist. If you and your partner have been emotionally distant for quite a long time, or your emotional distance springs from a traumatic root event, a therapist can help you get past this.
Related Articles

How to Be Less Reactive and Less ...

Tips for Forgiving Your Best Friend

What Causes Someone to Be Clingy to a ...

Types of Conflict in Marriage
How to Fix a Relationship After Cheating

Signs That Your Relationship is Toxic

The Effects of Lack of Communication in ...

How to Be More Comfortable With ...

What Are the Benefits of Effective ...

How Insecurity Can Ruin a Marriage

How Do I Help My Ex-Husband Move On?

How to Forgive a Family Betrayal

How to Stop Thinking About Someone ...
How to Deal With Insecurity

How Does Anger Affect Relationships?

Forgiving Your Husband After Hurtful ...

Repairing a Relationship After a ...
How to Fix an Abusive Relationship

Types of Marriage Separation
The Negative Effects of Jealousy
References
Writer Bio
Emma Wells has been writing professionally since 2004. She is also a writing instructor, editor and former elementary school teacher. She has a Master's degree in writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English and anthropology. Her creative work has been published in several small literary magazines.
Photo Credits
Gary Houlder/Lifesize/Getty Images