I'm a 27m in a LTR with a 27F ("Amy"). We moved in together into a rental about three months ago, and have been dating just over a year.

On Sunday, I skipped dinner with Amy’s family because I felt overwhelmed by how unloved and unrecognized I feel by my own family. I overreacted and stayed home, which upset Amy and caused a lot of tension.

On Monday during work I messaged her over text, saying she should’ve stayed with me. She was really hurt as she hates when I send messages without going over things face to face, saying I’ve promised to stop doing this kind of thing but it keeps happening.

After taking some space, we talked. I told her I find it hard to open up face-to-face without feeling like I’m making things worse. I suggested we try having regular “feelings time” to check in emotionally - she was open to it.

She also told me my texts come across as manipulative, which was painful to hear. But I’m trying to take that seriously and learn how to communicate better. It’s hard, but I want to change.

Ever since then things have just been so tense and I just don't feel like myself - obviously the dynamic changed when we moved in together but how do I go about restoring my frame and being someone she actually respects and admires?