I have no fear of being rejected. My problem is that the last time I was in a relationship and thought I was on top of the world with my partner, anytime there was a disagreement or difference of opinion, I was gaslit or stonewalled for up to 2 days, leaving me to keep trying harder in spite of it, and I nearly lost the will to live. Getting those thoughts of an “early checkout” to finally stop was the hardest and longest battle I’ve ever been through, as grateful as I am that I don’t feel that way about myself anymore.

Is this a common feeling to have experienced when trying to re-enter the dating world, and what can I do about it? I don’t know how to fully embrace my confidence without having conflicting thoughts of how worthless I felt for trying and being communicative last time. My heart wants to try again more than anything, but my brain keeps fighting to tell me it’s not worth it, and to remember what you went through last time.

I just don’t know what I can do other than resume therapy, but after 1.5 years of sessions, I don’t feel like I’ve made any progress in this area of my life. Any advice would be beyond sincerely appreciated. Thank you.