Series 3: Curious Connections – Navigating Relationships
Episode 38: The Dormouse – Avoidance and Withdrawal in Relationships
Some people, like the Dormouse, retreat into themselves when emotions run high—pulling away, shutting down, or disappearing altogether.
But what happens when avoidance becomes a pattern in relationships? In this episode of Wonderland Unlocked, we explore the instinct to withdraw—why some of us struggle to stay present in conflict, intimacy, or emotional vulnerability, and how this impacts the connections we try to build.
Why do we pull away when things get difficult? Is it self-protection, fear, or something deeper? Through personal stories and deep reflection, we’ll uncover the roots of avoidance, how it can create distance in relationships, and what it takes to move from emotional retreat to genuine connection.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by someone who won’t open up—or if you’re the one who disappears when things get too intense—this episode is for you.
Because while taking space is sometimes necessary, true connection requires more than just showing up—it means staying, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Music Credit:
Intro song by Lydia the Bard & Tony – ALICE IN WONDERLAND VILLAIN SONG – I Only Paint in Red Now
