Sometimes they withdraw because they fear that they've allowed too much contact w/others, and other times, they withdraw to focus on themselves and what is going on in their little space. They have to have some time to digest what they've learned in the passing of time, so I would not be too concerned about the periods of noncommunication. Keep in mind that they do the quiet periods throughout the crisis and not just at the "withdrawal" stage and/or when they are reconnecting. Just like depression, the noncommunication times are in the mix throughout.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
