I like to face my feelings. Run at them head on until I resolve them. I find thinking, writing and talking are best. Researching too. I guess it depends on the feeling and how well I understand it.

This approach isn’t the only way of course. Some people need space from everything and everyone. It’s how they handle things.

That can be difficult if you love that person. Firstly because it can trigger that insecurity that you’ve done something wrong – even when you haven’t, and the person has told you that – or that there is a uncomfortable consequence coming your way.

Secondly though, because you want to help. Maybe you have a perspective you’d like to share, or give that hug. Whatever, when someone you love is in pain, it’s natural to want to help.

Regardless, the important thing is to respect how that person wants to process and to be there for them when they’re ready.

If it’s your partner, that can be double hard. It can feel like the silent treatment (it’s not, because they’ve told you they need space/you know this about them) and you can feel anxious that they might leave you (if you have abandonment issues like me).

For me, I own my insecurities and anxieties. I trust that person is telling me that they need space to process, and it’s for no other reason. It’s really difficult – no doubt. Try and use the time on productive things and show them love by supporting their needs.