Individuals with a history of emotional neglect in childhood tend to foster these persistent behavior patterns throughout their lives.

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In the complex tapestry of human emotions, some individuals may find themselves struggling to identify and describe their feelings, a condition known as alexithymia. This difficulty can often be traced back to childhood emotional neglect, a phenomenon that has far-reaching implications in adulthood.

One common behaviour exhibited by adults who lived through emotional neglect is over-functioning in relationships. They earn love by being useful, anticipating needs, and taking on too much responsibility. This pattern can lead to a perpetual cycle of exhaustion and unmet needs.

People-pleasing is another habit that often grows from environments where love felt conditional. By making less of oneself, one might believe they can stay connected. This, however, can result in a struggle to recognize unmet needs and a tendency to accept inadequate relationships.

A small practice that can help adults who lived through emotional neglect is to pause before answering when someone asks what they want, and name one specific preference, even if it's tiny. This simple act can help one become more attuned to their needs and assertive in expressing them.

Chronic emotional neglect can lead to feelings of guilt when resting, as productivity becomes a currency for safety and love. Swapping "sorry" for "thanks" can communicate that one's needs are valid and one is grateful, not guilty.

Adults who experienced emotional neglect may also find themselves apologizing excessively for existing, communicating that they are afraid their presence is a problem. This chronic apologizing is a tell that communicates that one's needs are not valid and that one feels guilty for existing.

In relationships, adults who lived through emotional neglect may pair up with under-functioners, people who happily let them carry the load. This dynamic can further reinforce the over-functioning behaviour.

A quick rebalancing move taught for adults who lived through emotional neglect is to ask before entering a meeting or conversation, "What am I noticing in me right now?" and "What do I need to take care of myself while I'm here?" This simple question can help one stay grounded and focused on their own needs.

The "tiny 20" is another small restful ritual that helps adults who lived through emotional neglect. It involves taking 20 minutes of non-productive, nourishing time each day. This time can be spent on activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as reading, meditation, or taking a walk.

Raising one's bar starts with recognizing the story of accepting inadequate relationships and offering a new story of asking for more and walking away when it's not there. Healing from emotional neglect is possible, especially when one gives oneself the steady attention one did not receive in the past.

It's important to note that the author of the article explaining the seven most common adult health risks influenced by childhood emotional neglect is not explicitly identified in the provided search results. Nonetheless, the information presented here offers a valuable starting point for those seeking to understand and overcome the effects of childhood emotional neglect.