There is lots of discussion in popular media about narcissism and narcissists. What is a narcissist? In a nutshell, they are somebody who can be very manipulative, cold (though act warm and charming as part of their manipulation), calculating, controlling, and lacking empathy. Inherently they are very unhealthy within themselves but do not see this […]
How it Feels On the Good Side of a Narcissist Read More »
Some people spend time and attention getting to know the signs that it is time to start a relationship: There is mutual interest and attraction; you are feeling a connection to the person; you would like to get to know that person more; you have the energy and time to enter into a relationship. As
When Is it Time to Say Good-bye? Read More »
In a previous blog post, I wrote about ‘The Dopamine Chase’ and how our brains can seek out increasing amounts of dopamine. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter that tells our brain when something was rewarding and that we should do it again (and probably more of it). This can come from feelings, relationships, substances, food, and
Boundaries are something that I often here people are not comfortable with. Usually it is because they have not had practice or exposure to the language of boundaries. I suspect another reason for the discomfort is that boundaries seem to have the connotation of being “bad” as they often imply distance and disconnect, which can
What is Detachment with Love? Read More »
There is a lot going on in the world right now and this has led to increased levels of stress, tension, as well as compensatory coping mechanisms like substance use, sex, and escape via media or other things. My hope (perhaps it’s idealistic) for the world is that we can see all of these goings-on
Wondering whether or not you may be struggling from codependency? Please read the statements below and answer whether these are true or false for you within the past 3 months. 1. I find myself more often than not irritated, frustrated, and reactive 2. My reactions are often strong and may not have an apparent reason
Codependency Self-Test Read More »
Codependency, or Addiction involving relationships, is just as much a part of Addiction as drug use, alcohol use, gambling, or other manifestations. Yet, it often gets a bad wrap, is consistently misunderstood and not placed in the Addiction category. Today, I am here to tell you that Addiction involving relationships is just as much a
Relapsing in Codependency Read More »
When you look up lists of feelings, they are often categorized as good vs. bad. This gives us the impression that some feelings are wanted, encouraged, and welcomed, whereas others are unwanted, discouraged, and, therefore, need to be avoided, shut off, and/or disregarded. From an emotional health and intelligence perspective, this sets up a problem.
From ‘Good vs. Bad’ Feelings to Just ‘Feelings’ Read More »
As a psychologist I spend a lot of time talking. I have also taken it upon myself over the years to do videos, blog posts, articles, and podcasts to share information related to Addiction and mental health. Sometimes I hit a wall with what I can say. I feel like I’ve “been there, done that,”
What to Say When You’ve Run Out of Things to Say Read More »
Yes, here it is, that uncomfortable but commonly thought about but rarely discussed topic of sex. We will also push the bar a little bit further and talk specifically about sex in the context of recovery from Addiction and mental health issues. Okay, maybe I’ve set my sights a bit high here as this is
Sexual Health in Recovery Read More »
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