Relationship
Ways to be emotionally available
Be open minded in a relationship
Be friends first
Those who tend to be emotionally distant have the worst commitment and trust issues. So if you want to learn how to be emotionally available, developing friendship first is a great strategy. Your friendships are probably a lot deeper than any of your romantic relationships have been.
Slowing down and deciding to just be friends for a while can help you open up without the added pressure of all the drama dating can bring.
Talk about complex matters
Trust issues will be a primary factor that triggers your emotional unavailability. So instead of going for small talk, discussing deep and meaningful subjects can help you get to know them better. Don’t keep talking about your work or your day, but go for issues and complex matters.
This will help you get to know them in an intimate way but it’ll also force them to get to know you. When you discuss controversial topics, you won’t be thinking about it in terms of opening up. It just feels like you’re just chatting about things you have strong opinions about. This is why guarded people love talking about deep subjects; it doesn’t force them to open up.
Commit to the idea of opening up
If you can’t commit to being more emotionally available, you won’t be. You need to make a conscious decision to be more open and stick to it.
Growth will always be uncomfortable, but you need to dedicate yourself to letting others in, even if every fibre of your being tells you to run away and shut down.
Working toward it every single day will ensure that you get there someday. Focus on your goal, and you’ll get there eventually.
Be empathetic
Think about how the other person feels. Do you think it would really make them happy to see you being so distant all the time? It probably hurts them. Not to mention the fact that they probably don’t think you care about them as much as you do. So if you want to know how to be emotionally available, learn to empathise with others.
Think about how it would feel if the situation were reversed and take it from there. For instance, in an argument, instead of shutting down and possibly walking away, remind yourself to practise empathy so you can see why they’re upset.
Realise how much you care about that person
Do you truly care about the person you want to get close with? If so, you really need to be working toward showing them how much you care. And that means opening up to them. Especially if you’re afraid to lose them, then you need to do everything in your willpower to let them in and become vulnerable.
It takes a lot of courage, but have faith in yourself that you can do this. You can’t, in good conscience, care about someone deeply without showing them who you really are.
To be continued…
Relationship
HIV Infection: Health Director Cautions Adolescents and Couples Against Unhealthy Sexual Behaviours
Mr. George Agyemang, the Acting Wenchi Municipal Director of Health in the Bono Region, has cautioned adolescents to refrain from engaging in unprotected sex and having multiple sexual partners.
He said HIV infection was recording alarming figures in the municipality and urged couples to remain faithful and avoid extra-marital affairs to protect themselves against new HIV infections.
Mr. Agyemang gave the advice while speaking at the 2026 review meeting of the directorate at Wenchi on the theme: “Stakeholder’s Engagement and Efforts in Achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
He revealed that the municipality currently has 2,153 persons living with HIV and AIDS, with the HIV and AIDS prevalence standing at 2.5 per cent, ranking it the second highest in the Bono Region.
Mr. Agyemang further indicated that HIV infections do not discriminate, noting that people who engage in promiscuous lifestyles expose themselves to the virus. He urged those who could not control their sexual desires to always use condoms.
By GNA
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As a parent, receiving news that your child has special needs can be overwhelming. The journey ahead may seem daunting, but with the right support and strategies, you can help your child thrive.
According to Dr. Bruce F. Pennington, a renowned psychologist and expert in developmental psychopathology, “Parents are the most important agents of change for children with developmental disabilities” (Pennington, 2009). This emphasises the crucial role parents play in shaping their child’s future.
Every child is unique, and special needs come in many forms. Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, or another condition, understanding their individual strengths and challenges is crucial. Research suggests that parents who focus on their child’s strengths and abilities tend to experience better outcomes and higher levels of well-being (Hastings & Taft, 2015). Take time to learn about their diagnosis, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for your child’s needs.
Embracing the Journey: Understanding Your Child’s Unique Path
Establishing routines and structures can help your child feel more secure. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and use visual aids to communicate.
A study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that children with autism who followed a structured routine experienced reduced anxiety and improved social interactions (Gioia et al., 2018).
Do not be afraid to seek professional help from Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) when needed, whether it is occupational therapy, speech therapy, or counselling.
Building a Support Network: You Are Not Alone
Parenting a special child can be isolating, but it does not have to be. Reach out to support groups, online communities, CPAC, and local organisations that cater to families with special needs. These networks can provide emotional support, practical advice, and valuable resources.
Dr. Jan Blustein, a leading expert on family support and autism, notes that “social support is a critical component of family well-being” (Blustein, 2012).
Practical Strategies: Navigating Daily Challenges with Ease
Focus on your child’s strengths and abilities, and encourage them to pursue their passions. This positive approach will help build confidence and self-esteem. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and acknowledge their efforts. By doing so, you will create a nurturing environment that fosters growth and development.
Celebrating Progress: Focusing on Your Child’s Strengths
As you embark on this journey with your special child, remember that you’re not alone. Seek support, prioritise self-care, and focus on your child’s strengths. With love, patience, and the right resources, you can help your child thrive.
To be continued…
Source: Rev. Counselor Prince Offei and Counselor Blessing Offei’s insights on relationships, mental health, and parenting special needs children in Ghana. He is a leading mental health professional, lecturer, renowned author, and marriage counsellor at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC Counsellor Training Institute).
He is the author of several books, including “Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage” and “A Counsellor’s Guide to Using ‘Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage’ Effectively.”
By Rev. Counselor Prince Offei & Counselor Blessing Offei
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