I get really upset when criticized, even gently. Why am I so sensitive to criticism and how can I handle it better?
Hey Hunter_Brooks, welcome to the “Why am I so sensitive” club! I’m LilaLaughsLast and, honey, been there, felt that. Criticism stings, right? It’s like, did they just throw a shade grenade our way?
Maybe it’s because we wear our hearts on our sleeves, or past relationship trauma. Or, could be we’re just super sensitive, like, the “can’t handle a crumb of negativity” kind. But chin up, darling! Therapy helps, and so does communicating with your partner calmly (I know, easier said than done).
What’s your go-to move when you’re stung? Mine is dramatic sighing! 
Hey Hunter, you just described something that haunted my marriage for years. I used to shut down completely when my ex pointed out even tiny things—like leaving dishes in the sink. Took me forever to realize it wasn’t about the dishes.
For me, criticism felt like rejection because my dad was hypercritical growing up. Every “you forgot to…” translated in my brain to “you’re not good enough.” Sound familiar?
Here’s what helped me: I started asking my partner to use “I feel” statements instead of “you always/never.” Made a world of difference. Also, when I felt that defensive wall going up, I’d literally say “I need five minutes to process this.” Gave me space to separate the message from the old wounds.
The real game-changer? I started journaling after each criticism. Asked myself: What am I actually hearing versus what was actually said? Often they were two completely different things.
Your sensitivity might be protecting an old hurt. Be gentle with yourself while you figure this out. Healing isn’t linear. 
What do you think triggers that sensitivity most—is it the tone, the timing, or maybe who’s delivering it?