By Eshana Saha
Published Jan 13, 2025

Hindustan Times
Lifestyle

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Fear of abandonment: 5 surprising signs you didn’t expect

Growing up in dysfunctional homes, fear of abandonment shapes our behaviour and relationships, often showing up in unexpected ways that impact our adult connections.

Grief: In times of grief or loss, we seek the comfort of a partner. When we do not find that, it can trigger the fear of abandonment, leading to resentment, anxiety and loneliness. 

Sickness: In times of sickness, we crave the warmth and care of our loved ones. Absence of that can make us revisit the fear of abandonment, leading to anxiety.

Unexpected situations: Be it missing a flight or a sudden job loss, the loss of control can make us get into the downward spiral of fear about everything around us. 

A major life change: A major life change can make us feel vulnerable and scared. This can further trigger the fear of abandonment. 

Emotionally overwhelmed: When we feel overwhelmed with a surge of difficult emotions, we crave the care of an understanding partner – failing to find that can make us scared, anxious and lonely.