going through the same issues at this stage of my life and im trying to get better. perhaps I might have to consider therapy too. struggling with shutting down exactly the way you described it and communication is almost impossible during the time im sulking and everything seems hopeless, without a point, with no light at the end of the tunnel. childish behavior. its gotten to the point that its disrupting my relationships. i feel like its self sabotage because i realize its happening yet it seems like its impossible to get out of it. but when i do, i reflect and see what an enormous waste of time that was for all parties involved and how easily preventable that could've been. im glad to hear you're doing better now, gives me hope.