Alexithymia refers to difficulty identifying, describing, or sometimes even noticing emotions. A person might feel physical tension, exhaustion, or stomach pain without realizing those sensations are connected to anxiety, grief, or overwhelm. The emotions are there; the challenge is in translating them into words or linking them to inner states.

Alexithymia isn’t a disorder, but a personality trait that often shows up alongside autism, ADHD, and trauma histories. It’s linked to increased risk of negative coping strategies such as emotional avoidance, substance use, or self-harm. It’s also connected to heightened chronic pain and somatic discomfort, and can make neurodivergent traits like impulsivity or social communication differences more challenging.

Alexithymia isn’t fixed. With support, we can strengthen interoceptive awareness (tuning into internal body signals) and expand emotional literacy by expanding our emotional vocabulary. Over time, these practices help bridge the gap between what we feel in our bodies and how we understand and express those feelings, which can support our overall mental health and wellness.