'Neglect' sounds like a strong word and it may conjure up images of abuse, however Childhood Emotional Neglect (or CEN) is far more subtle and usually goes unnoticed until adulthood.

 

Simply put, childhood emotional neglect is a consequence of a child receiving anything less than unconditional love, support and safety from their caregivers.

 

I believe there is no such thing as a perfect parent, CEN is on a spectrum and most people experienced it to some degree. However, the people who are impacted in adulthood tend to be those who were exposed to consistently poor parenting over a long period of time.

 

This might be:

Ten questions to ask yourself, right now:
* Do you have a sense that something is wrong, but you don't know what it is?
* Do you have a feeling that you are hollow inside, that you are empty or have a void within?
* Do you react badly to rejection?
* Do you often feel sad, unhappy or down for no obvious reason?
* Would you describe yourself as highly sensitive?
* Do you have problems with relationships and intimacy?
* Do you engage in addictive behaviour - alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, food, sex, work, exercise?
* Do you have low self-esteem or self-worth - are you not 'good enough'?
* Do you have a sense of being numb to your feelings?
* Do you rarely experience true joy and happiness?

If you have answered 'yes' to most of these questions, there is a strong chance you have experienced emotional neglect or trauma as a child. An emotionally neglected child may struggle to form strong and secure attachments as an adult. They may feel hollow or empty, worthless (or overly important), judge themselves harshly and struggle with addictive tendencies - drinking, eating or exercising too much, for example. 

 

If this describes you, my book How to Heal Your Inner Child will change your life and give you back the love, compassion and authenticity you needed as a child, and deserve as an adult.

 

You can also check out my YouTube channel and blog for more resources and support.