Communication Issues

 
 

What are communication issues?

Communication issues involve persistent difficulties expressing yourself, understanding others, or navigating social interactions. These challenges can affect confidence, relationships, and mental wellbeing—and often go unrecognised in adults.

“I knew what I wanted to say, but the words never came out right. It left me feeling frustrated, misunderstood, and alone.”

Different experiences of communication issues in adults

Communication difficulties in adulthood can take many forms. Some people struggle with spoken language—finding it hard to explain thoughts clearly or keep up with conversations. Others misinterpret tone, sarcasm, or non-verbal cues. Communication issues are often linked with neurodevelopmental conditions like autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but can also stem from social anxiety, trauma, language disorders, or brain injury.

People struggling with these issues may have adapted for years through “masking” or avoidance—choosing roles with limited interaction, relying on scripts, or avoiding group situations. These adaptations can lead to exhaustion, frustration, and low self-esteem. Others experience emotional outbursts or shutdowns when communication breaks down. Therapy helps people understand their communication style, build skills, and reduce distress.

“It’s powerful to help someone feel heard—perhaps for the first time. Supporting clearer, calmer communication changes lives.”

Symptoms of communication issues

  • Struggling to find the right words when speaking
  • Interrupting, talking too much, or going off-topic
  • Misinterpreting others’ intentions or tone
  • Anxiety in conversations or social settings
  • Difficulty following complex instructions or conversations
  • Overthinking or ruminating after interactions
  • Avoiding eye contact, small talk, or group settings
  • Sensitivity to criticism or feeling frequently misunderstood
  • Challenges with assertiveness or setting boundaries
  • Co-occurring emotional distress or withdrawal
Our approach
 

Our approach to treating communication issues

At Bloomfield Health, we offer holistic, respectful support for adults experiencing communication difficulties. We begin with a detailed assessment to explore your communication style, history, and co-occurring concerns (e.g. ASD, anxiety, trauma). Our therapies may include social communication skills training or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). We also provide support for emotional regulation, confidence-building, and relationship problems. Whether your goal is clearer speech, stronger boundaries, or simply feeling more at ease with others—we work at your pace.

 

Frequently asked questions

Sometimes—but not always. Many people struggle with communication due to anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or language-based conditions.

Yes. Therapy can help clarify your thoughts, slow down your speech, and build confidence in how you express yourself.

That’s common. We work gently to reduce performance anxiety and build tools for calmer communication

Not necessarily. Communication challenges often persist into adulthood and deserve support—regardless of when they began.

We offer diagnostic assessment for ASD and ADHD, where relevant, as part of our broader approach to supporting someone with communication challenges.

We offer individual and couple support to improve communication styles and mutual understanding.

Not at all. Many people with communication difficulties are highly intelligent. It’s about style and processing, not ability.

Not necessarily. With insight, practice, and support, most people see real improvement in how they express and connect with others.

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