Shame can be a powerful and destructive emotion that can contribute to toxic relationships. When individuals experience shame, they often feel unworthy, flawed, and inadequate. This internalized shame can lead to a variety of negative behaviors and patterns within relationships, ultimately creating toxicity and dysfunction. One way shame can contribute to toxic relationships is through the development of codependency. Codependency is a dynamic where one person excessively relies on the other for emotional support, validation, and self-worth. Shame can fuel this codependent dynamic as individ ..read more

Retroactive jealousy is a common issue that can affect individuals with different attachment styles. However, those with an anxious attachment style often find themselves particularly susceptible to this form of jealousy. In this post, we’ll explore the connection between an anxious attachment style and retroactive jealousy. I will also discuss strategies and techniques to overcome retroactive jealousy for individuals with an anxious attachment style. Understanding Anxious Attachment Style Anxious attachment style refers to a pattern of behavior characterized by a fear of abandonment, a need ..read more

Love addiction and an anxious attachment style are two psychological patterns that can significantly impact relationships and personal well-being. While they are distinct concepts, they share certain similarities and can often coexist in individuals. Understanding these similarities and learning effective strategies for healing can be crucial for personal growth and building healthy relationships. Similarities between Love Addiction and an Anxious Attachment Style 1. Fear of Abandonment: Both love addiction and an anxious attachment style are rooted in a deep fear of abandonment. Individuals ..read more

The start of a new year is often seen as a time for fresh beginnings, setting goals, and focusing on personal growth. However, if you find yourself in a toxic relationship, it can be challenging to embrace the positive changes that a new year brings. In this blog, we will explore some valuable tips on how not to let a toxic relationship ruin your new year and instead, empower yourself to move forward towards a healthier and happier future. 1. Recognize the Signs The first step in dealing with a toxic relationship is to recognize the signs. Toxic relationships are characterized by constant neg ..read more

Leaving a toxic relationship is an incredibly challenging endeavor. Many individuals find themselves trapped in toxic dynamics, unable to break free from the cycle of abuse and toxicity. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why it is so difficult to leave a toxic relationship. 1. Emotional Manipulation and Dependency Toxic relationships are often characterized by emotional manipulation and dependency. The toxic partner may use tactics such as gaslighting, guilt-tripping, or playing with emotions to exert control over their victim. Over time, the victim’s self-esteem and self ..read more

The early stages of any new relationship are always the most intense. This is the time when the exhilaration of meeting the right person is the most pronounced, and we feel immediately close and may even become focused on thinking about them frequently or on an ongoing basis. This is typically a period of time when all of our emotional energy is on the relationship. Hormonal changes in the body, including higher levels of adrenaline, create a high level of emotional awareness. The levels of serotonin, which naturally calm and relax a person, are low, leading to a heightened sense of every inte ..read more

A toxic relationship is destructive on so many levels. Not only is there the loss of self and self-worth, but there is also the loss of enjoyment in life, the ability to be with a loving, positive partner, and the loss of your own sense of joy and purpose. This New Year, creating the intention to walk away from a toxic relationship is the best possible gift to give yourself. Like any type of change it is not always easy. There will be times when you may be tempted to give the partner another chance, to make those old excuses, or finding yourself being pulled back into the relationship througho ..read more

One of the telltale signs of being in a relationship with a narcissist is the feeling that you are always doing the giving, and they are always doing the taking. This is very different from a healthy relationship where both partners give and take. Even though sometimes one partner may need or ask for more, they are also prepared and willing to do the same for their partner. The term narcissistic supply refers to the constant attention, admiration, and subservience that a narcissist needs. No matter how much their partner gives them, they constantly demand more to fill their inner void. This of ..read more

Entitlement is a term that is used frequently in many different areas. As a way of thinking, entitlement increases the belief that one individual is deserving of special treatment or privileges. This is not based on any specific criteria but rather the belief that you are superior or more deserving than the other person in the relationship. This extends to all aspects of life, and the entitled person does not negotiate or make concessions; they simply demand and expect this special treatment. This is the very definition of a narcissist. Narcissistic entitlement often involves believing they d ..read more

The term situationship may be new to many people. However, it is an apt description of a non-committed relationship. A few years ago, this type of relationship was often called “friends with benefits,” where a couple had a casual dating relationship, no formal commitment, and also enjoyed a sexual relationship. All couples go through a period of time when they are in a situationship. This is the time between dating and making the relationship official. At this point, there is no stated label or definition of the relationship, and it is often seen as fluid or free from commitment. However, in ..read more