Alexithymia

Ever feel something brewing inside but can’t quite put your finger on what it is? That might be alexithymia — difficulty recognizing, naming, or describing your own emotions.

It’s not that you don’t feel things. Your emotions are absolutely there and valid. It’s more like your internal emotional GPS sometimes has trouble giving you clear directions. You might notice physical sensations — a tight chest, unsettled stomach, or sudden fatigue — without immediately connecting them to feelings like anxiety, sadness, or frustration.

Maybe you’ll say “I’m fine” when asked how you’re doing, even though something definitely feels off. Or you might feel completely overwhelmed but struggle to explain why to someone who wants to help.

This experience is pretty common among neurodivergent folks, especially autistic people. It can make emotional conversations feel tricky — not because you don’t care deeply (you probably care a lot!), but because the language of feelings doesn’t always come naturally.

Here’s what’s important to remember: alexithymia isn’t a flaw or something that needs fixing. It’s just a different way of processing emotions. Many people with alexithymia find other ways to express themselves — through art, music, movement, or simply spending time with people who get them. And with time and self-compassion, emotional awareness often grows.