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The psychological dynamics of abusive relationships are complex, and sometimes difficult to understand. Theories like Battered Woman Syndrome help give us a framework to understand what victims feel and experience. It helps us understand why victims sometimes recant their stories, support men who abuse them, and stay in dangerous relationships. Understanding these dynamics and the reasons victims behave the way they do also enables counselors and advocates to more effectively help victims and their children stay safe, and hopefully escape abusive situations. [More]

Some people do everything that they can to make sure that they avoid conflict, while others embrace it and get "toe to toe" with it so that they can feel brave and empowered. No matter which type of person you are, you should know that there is a healthy way for you to deal with conflict, whether it's in your friendship or in your marriage. In this article, we're going to take a closer look at conflict and how to deal with it in a healthy manner. [More]

Everyone has those people in their lives that they trust with everything and anything. Many of us don't know where we would be without friends. But sadly, many people who struggle with mental illness do not have friends and a support system that they can fall back on - most people who struggle with these things end up secluding themselves. In this article, we're going to take a closer look at befriending those who struggle with their mental health and doing it in a way that can help them to live a happier, healthier life. [More]

The title of this article is actually a quote from Lama Surya Das in his book, Awakening the Buddha Within (1997). I was so stuck by the simple wisdom of this statement that I posted it on my computer at work, and my refrigerator at home, as a frequent reminder of the dangers of hanging on to things that are better let go. But letting go of feelings, people or situations that are destructive to us, or out of our control, is easier said than done. We hold on and attach for lots of different reasons, but learning to let go and detach in healthy ways can help restore our sense of peace and our relationships with others. [More]

If you're contemplating a long-distance relationship, there are a lot of things that you should consider. Really, it would be best to hear stories from others who have been in long-distance relationships. These stories may lead you to think about things you may not have considered, especially if you’re entering a new relationship and you are still in the "ga-ga" phase. Take time to think about everything involved before you jump into a relationship that is long distance. [More]

Are you angry and bitter every time you think of someone who has wronged you? If so, you're human but also probably living a more stressful and unhealthy life than you need to be. The problem with allowing others to control our emotions is that we cannot control what others do. If someone doesn't live up to our standards and expectations we allow them to destroy our happiness. We think that they have to do something in order to allow us to move forward. [More]

Let's break it down. Flattery can be defined as pleasing someone by giving them [almost] constant compliments. It can also be defined as making excessive comments and praises in order to play upon someone's vanity. This article will show you ways to flatter your spouse, in good, healthy ways, by never letting your spouse know that you find them attractive, caring, or whatever else will make them feel good about themselves. [More]

You have probably heard people say things like “be real” and “just be yourself”, and ‘stay true to yourself”. This is common advice given to children and adults alike. It should be simple, right? Just be who you are. But, there is much more to it than that, and it takes real courage and strength to be your genuine self. [More]

Young people these days refer to it as “Facebook Official”, where they take the next step in defining the relationship. For adults of all ages and stages the “Define the Relationship” conversation can be anxiety ridden and awkward. Determining when is the right time to move to the next level and what actually should the next level be in the romance can be a dreaded and difficult discussion for any couple. [More]

How many of us have had a particularly nasty, stressful argument and within a day have an intense flare up leaving you in agony? Probably too many of us. Communication will make or break each and every relationship we have throughout our lives. So why aren't we taking it more seriously? [More]