Feeling alone in a relationship can happen even when the partner is loving and present. This sense of loneliness may come from a lack of emotional closeness, poor communication, or an imbalance in how much each person gives and receives in the relationship. Véronique Kohn, a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist who specializes in love relationships, says it is normal to feel lonely sometimes, as each person has their own needs, worries, and desires. These small differences, which are natural in any two-person relationship, can lead to a feeling of not being perfectly in sync with one’s partner. Sometimes, loneliness can stem from expecting to always be on the same emotional wavelength as the partner. Véronique Kohn explains that this desire may be tied to the idea of a soulmate—a person who would naturally understand everything without needing to talk. In reality, however, even in close relationships, it is not always possible to know exactly what the other person is thinking or feeling. The partner may be tired, stressed, or simply not aware of what the other person expects. When loneliness becomes a persistent concern, it is important to reflect on what one expects from the relationship, why they remain in it, and what might be holding them back. Another common situation involves a partner who is physically present but emotionally distant, which can be especially frustrating for those who value emotional connection. Lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, such as believing the partner no longer loves them or that they have done something wrong. To address this, Véronique Kohn suggests open communication rather than letting doubts or assumptions take root. This does not mean forcing the partner to speak or blaming them for being quiet. Instead, it involves creating the right conditions for a conversation—choosing a calm moment, expressing one’s feelings, and clearly stating what is needed. For example, saying "I feel alone" can be rephrased to avoid blame, such as, "When such and such happened, I expected you to react like this. I felt hurt / alone / worried. I would need more tenderness. Could you try to tell me sweet words more often?" The best sign that help may be needed is the level of emotional distress. If someone is often sad, very stressed, or if the lack of intimacy is causing significant emotional weight, it is important to seek support. Individual therapy can help explore why one might expect so much from the relationship, while couple therapy can help address the dynamics between partners. Feeling alone from time to time while in a relationship does not automatically mean the relationship is failing. However, if the lack of connection becomes a long-term issue that causes suffering and creates an imbalance in the relationship, it may be time to ask deeper questions. The right questions are not only "Why doesn't my partner give me what I need?" but also "What do I really need?" and "Does this relationship allow me to feel heard, supported, and loved?"