When Every Conversation Feels Like Criticism

In many relationships, conversations that once felt easy can begin to feel heavy. Small comments spark tension, and partners start correcting tone, repeating criticisms, or labeling emotions as “too much.”

Often, it’s not about the words at all — it’s about emotional distance. Criticism becomes a stand-in for closeness that hasn’t been named. One partner feels misunderstood, the other feels disconnected, and soon both are reacting to each other’s reactions instead of the real issue.

The root questions are rarely spoken aloud: Are we still close? Do you still see me? Am I safe to speak without filtering myself?

Not every crisis is loud. Sometimes it’s a quiet erosion of safety and understanding. Healing begins when both partners shift from debating words to addressing the deeper need for presence, trust, and connection.

Read the full article on Medium → https://medium.com/@nilantika/when-conversation-turns-critical-communication-breakdowns-in-relationships-d842974d1abb