Parents are the first relationships in a child’s life. Everything they learn about relationships is modeled by their parents. Even before developing language, children absorb their parents’ feelings and behavior, their moods, their way of communicating, or how they express affection or frustration. How the Emotional Incest Develops It is not a recognized clinical diagnosis […]
Sober coaches know better than anybody that addiction is a devastating and heartbreaking condition. For those struggling with substance abuse, or the loved ones who witness their descent, it can be an endless battle with the darker sides of our nature. It’s a struggle that far too many people are losing. According to the Centers […]
It’s natural to have high expectations. But what happens when your expectations are overblown? Over-hyped expectations can have a devastating impact on your life in three key areas: 1. Self-Esteem: You set the bar too high for yourself. “I’m going to lose 10 pounds in three days.” “I’m going to increase my income in the […]
If you’re reading this post about a lifestyle change, chances are you feel dissatisfied with life. You may feel unhappy with your relationships, stuck in your career, or sick and tired of battling anxiety or depression. Yet, despite many efforts to improve your life, every day still feels uninspired. What do you do then? Common […]
You’re walking down the street, feeling great; the sun is shining, life is good. Suddenly, you recall something regretful you did. A jab of shame stabs at you; you shake your head and shudder in disbelief. “Why did that just happen? I was having such a good day!” You try to push the feeling away. You […]
Most people come to therapy because they’re disappointed in life. Things didn’t turn out as planned; hopes were dashed, relationships ended, careers stagnated. Is it possible to be happy when life doesn’t work out as you planned? How do you define happiness? While most folks would agree that happiness is a worthy goal, few agree […]
The word “hate” provokes strong responses. Some parents forbid their children from using it; many religions preach against it. But what if hate isn’t the problem? What if the expression of hate can be helpful—and, at times, healing? Like every complex feeling, it’s not “hate” itself that’s the problem. What you do with hate determines […]
The image most people attach to the word “depression” is of a solitary, lonely figure, despairing and downcast, silhouetted by a bleak landscape. We may wonder, “What happened to that poor soul?” Yet this image isn’t always accurate. On the surface, some depressed people appear to lead bustling, fulfilling lives; check out their social media, […]
Caretakers are a thoughtful and generous lot; ready to lend a hand, especially for a friend in need. Caretaking can appear generous: Need a ride to the airport? Someone to watch your pet? Want to borrow a few bucks until payday? No worries! The caretaker will be there. Empathic, loyal, kind, dedicated; what’s not to […]
Frustration is unavoidable in any relationship, particularly with close friends or romantic partners. The space between people will always be fertile ground for miscommunication and misunderstanding — and grudges. It would be unthinkable for even the healthiest intimate relationship not to experience intense frustration or hurtful moments. But before you read any further, take a […]