Is it normal to want your dad to comfort you at age 23?

[Anonymous]

I've never been close to my dad. He is hard to connect to emotionally, because he has autism (not saying all men with autism are like that, just explains it somewhat.)

Right now, I could just really use someone. I'm used to dealing with eveything alone, or talking to my husband, but now I'm going towards a future where thats not possible. And he has been my one coping mechanism since I was 14/15.

Is that normal, or is it weird? I feel awkward seeking him out.

[slatyb]

It is completely normal and healthy to reach out to him. Has he been supportive in general?

If you can't get what you need from him, are there others? Do you have anyone else, friends? You might try talking to them. "I'm used to dealing with everything alone" -- been there, done that, afraid to reach out to others for fear of being a burden to them. If you have a friend, talk to them. As a friend to others, I am always happy to listen and provide whatever support I can. Your friends would feel sad if they knew you were in need and were afraid to ask for help.

[Asker]

It feels shitty, cause I only ever reach out to him when I need money. And he is good like that. But I don't know, sometimes I wish I dared ask for more.

I can't tell anyone else, cause their worry would be suffocating and hate empty validation which I know the women in my life would give.

I just feel like my dad is perfect, because we aren't that cloe, but some part of him must care for me, even if he dont know how to show it (he wouldn't help me out financially like he does, if he didn't care, right?)

[slatyb]

"He is good like that" -- Then he will be happy to listen. Why are you afraid to ask for advice?

[Asker]

Cause I am not used to doing it. He lives far and we've never been very close. And he can be a bit awkward. So I'm just reluctant to for those reasons. But thats not a reason to not do it, so think I will. Thanks!

[slatyb]

He may be longing to be closer to you. He's been generous financially, so he cares about you. When two people aren't talking, one of them has to start. Be the one. You will both be happier for it.

[ChicoFromThe305]

It's a understandable situation, if your father cares for you then he will always be there for you, if he has autism then that requires more patience than anything

[RandomGirl42]

I'm 25 and run crying to my dad all the time. And some dads may not admit it but they like it when we do.

I really hope you find someone to help u through it all. We all need someone sometimes.

[Abbycado]

Of course it’s normal. That’s what parents do no matter your age.

[abc3643]

Well, I'm old enough to be your father (and grandfather, I suspect), so I am here for you if you want.

[Nikki1989]

Yes.

It's a deep-seated, biological and psychological wiring.

[Anonymous]

Of course it's completely normal.

[strateguy632]

It isn't

[ChangeMefot]

Normal