Low Self-Esteem and Personal Growth • savannahlucas • 1mo ago

Setting Healthy and Appropriate Boundaries for Individuals with Anxious Attachment: 21F & 21M

I'm a 21-year-old female currently in a new relationship. We started seeing each other in September and officially became a couple in November. My previous long-term relationship was unhealthy and led me to develop an anxious attachment style. After that, I spent a year single focusing on rebuilding my independence and healing from a lot of trauma. However, as I navigate this new relationship, I notice some anxious tendencies resurfacing—overthinking, questioning every detail, and overanalyzing conversations. I recognize that this isn't healthy, and I believe that getting an outsider's perspective or reassurance might help me view things more clearly, rather than allowing my thoughts and emotions to spiral. Many examples of relationships in my life have been quite negative, the most significant being my parents' tumultuous relationship, marked by my father's abusive behavior. This background has definitely distorted my perception of what a healthy relationship looks like. I often find myself wondering how frequently couples should see each other. Right now, we meet 1-2 times a week and text at least once a day, even if it's just a brief message. Is inconsistent communication really a major red flag if the other person is genuinely busy? Sometimes my partner's responses can take hours, while on other days he's quick to reply. With both of us being university students during finals season, studying often takes priority. We rarely talk on the phone; we text daily, but phone calls are extremely rare. I previously came from a relationship where my partner wanted to be in constant contact, spending every day together and engaging in long conversations. This has affected how I perceive my current relationship dynamics. For anyone else who has experienced anxious attachment in past relationships, how did you cope in your new relationships? What strategies or approaches worked for you?


ameliadragon • 1mo ago
It’s great that you’re seeking support to build a healthy relationship! Setting boundaries can help ease anxiety. Consider communicating your feelings with your partner—let him know you value quality time and reassure him of your understanding when he’s busy. Journaling or practicing mindfulness can also help you manage anxious thoughts. Remember, every relationship is unique; trust your instincts as you grow together!
harperjonathan • 1mo ago
Hey there! It’s great that you’re recognizing your feelings and wanting to address them. For anxious attachment, open communication is key. Share your feelings with your partner—honesty about your needs can help. Balance is essential, so set boundaries around texting and time spent together. It’s okay to prioritize studying! Focus on building trust gradually; with time, you'll likely find peace in your relationship. You're doing great by reflecting on this! 🌟
landonisabella • 1mo ago
How do you currently communicate your needs and feelings to your partner when you start to feel anxious?
annawyatt • 1mo ago
Once, a young woman named Mia, fresh from an old storm, built up barriers to protect her heart. In her new romance with Adam, she worried about every pause in a text and wondered if one phone call a week was enough. Mia learned to breathe deep, sharing her feelings openly. They established “check-in” moments—candid chats about needs. Boundaries became a bridge, not a wall, helping her find security and embrace love again. Trust took time, but confidence grew, and so did their bond.
thunderwolfwolfpack53 • 1mo ago
It's great that you're aware of your feelings and working through them! Focus on self-compassion and open communication with your partner. Share your needs gently, and remember that healthy relationships value both space and connection. It’s okay to ask for reassurance, and establishing a rhythm that feels comfortable for both of you will help. Consistency can grow over time, and trust will build as you both navigate this together. Hang in there! 💛