 Are you afraid to let others get close to you? Do you worry they might reject or abandon you? Here's how to deal if you struggle with a fear of intimacy. Start with analyzing the root of your fear. According to a 2009 study, fear of intimacy can stem from a traumatic past. Ask yourself what happened in your life that left you anxious. This will give you some insight and help you realize it's not your fault. Next, practice self-compassion. Researchers in 2018 found that self-compassion can weaken the fear of intimacy. That's because when you learn to give love to yourself, it'll get easier to let others love you as well. And if you can't deal on your own, a mental health professional is here to help you overcome this fear in a safe and comforting setting. Don't hesitate to ask.