Alexithymia

Alexithymia is when someone finds it hard to recognise, name, or describe their own emotions. It doesn’t mean they don’t feel things — just that putting those feelings into words can be difficult.

For example, someone might feel a tight chest or an unsettled stomach but not realise that what they’re feeling is anxiety. Or they might feel overwhelmed without being able to explain why.

This trait is common among neurodivergent people, especially those who are autistic. It can make emotional communication or relationships more challenging — not because of a lack of care, but because the language of emotion isn’t always intuitive.

Alexithymia isn’t a disorder or a defect. It’s a difference in how emotional processing works. With understanding and support, people with alexithymia can still express themselves in other ways, build strong relationships, and develop greater emotional awareness over time.