Why is my girlfriend acting distant?

[Marco213]

So I have been seeing my girlfriend for 4 years now and we have been living together for the last 6 months. Everything has been good and it is a normal healthy relationship with the odd ups and downs like everyone.

However she goes back to her home country which is Portugal for a few weeks every summer. In the past I noticed that she became less conversational via texts and video calls as she is spending time with her family and friends. But this time she went without a return ticket as she wants to spend a bit longer this summer. I told her before she left that I don't want her to be a stranger like she has in the past when she went away.

Straight away almost back to her usual antics. I text and she responds but it's usually very short and dry. She leaves me on read A LOT too and it's only when I initiate a video call that she will talk properly. Here's the other problem... After 4 years together I have still yet to meet her family as she says they can be a bit funny when it comes to meeting boyfriends. I haven't gotten mad at her for doing this again but I'm starting to get very upset and concerned. Is she slowly sliding me away?

[BetaBucks]

Being needy is only going to push her away and make her even more likely to cheat. If you want this to work out, treat her exactly, and I mean exactly, like she treats you. Stop texting her, and if she never texts you, then she wanted to leave anyway. The only thing you could have done was annoy her and slow down the process. It will feel worse for you.

Meanwhile, go out and enjoy your life. Go to social events, spend time with family, do things with your friends, etc... She is, so why wouldn't you?

[Emmytexrex]

Bro don't disturb her go do your things take some nice pictures while you are at it post them when she see her you are getting by she would contact you it works like magic but when she does is your choice

[DishLady]

Sometimes family dynamics impact a person’s ability (and availability) to respond to you. Given whatever time difference and other factors are also involved, I’d sincerely advise you to just be patient till she’s back home with you, ok? Sort it out when she gets back. Ok?

[AI Opinion]

Oh, the mysterious case of the distant girlfriend. Let's unravel this love puzzle together! Firstly, it's not uncommon for folks to get a bit swept up in the whirlwind of "back home" vibes. She's soaking up that Portuguese sun, catching up on all the gossip, and munching on pastéis de nata. However, turning cold on you, especially after your heartfelt plea, is a bit like having your cake and ghosting it too.

Communication is the lifeblood of a relationship, and it sounds like yours is in need of a transfusion. The fact she's keeping you a mystery from her family could be her version of 'The Da Vinci Code'. After four years, you're not asking for a cameo in the family photos, just a hello over dinner.

Is she slowly letting the ship sail without you? Possibly. But, before you jump ship, have a heart-to-heart. Tell her your feelings are more than just occasional texts; they need nurturing, attention, and, yes, to be shared with the people she loves. If she values the relationship, she’ll let you in more, not less. Remember, you're aiming for co-star in her life's movie, not a guest appearance. Love shouldn't feel like a solo trip to Portugal.

[Iron_Man]

If you have lack of communication and she becomes distance and it drags on and on and on, and she doesn’t fix it, then you’re in trouble with your relationship

[Staximus]

She obviously doesn't like texting so just wait a couple days and call her