When I work with clients around communication, I like to teach the difference between reacting and responding. Learning the difference between the two can be a vital component of a more healthy, functional relationship (whether it’s romantic or sexual relationships, family relationships, friendships, or even working relationships).

There are a multitude of ways that we communicate with each other. Some of them make us feel loved and respected, some we don’t think about, and some leave us feeling disconnected, confused, and angry. Today, we’ll discuss four modes of unhealthy communication, and how to fix them. These modes of communication are also known as The Four Horsemen of a Relationship, conceptualized by Drs. Julie and John Gottman, expert relationship researchers and therapists.

Core shame, however, is attached to our fundamental understanding of ourselves. These are the messages that we’ve internalized about ourselves that result in us feeling like we are not enough. Core shame leads to us being disconnected from ourselves and others due to the internalization of being unworthy of love, belonging, and acceptance.

It refers to a psychological and emotional framework that describes how individuals form and maintain relationships with others, particularly in the context of close interpersonal connections like romantic partners, family members, or close friends.

Grief is an inescapable part of the human experience, a complex web of emotions that envelops us when we lose someone or something significant in our lives. Whether it's the death of a loved one, the end of a cherished relationship, the loss of a job, or the fading of a dream, grief can cast a profound shadow upon our lives.

The main principle behind harm reduction is to meet individuals where they are, acknowledging that complete abstinence may not be realistic or achievable for everyone at a particular moment in their lives. Instead, the focus is on helping individuals reduce the risks associated with their behaviors and make incremental positive changes.

Mental health and climate change are interconnected and can have significant impacts on each other. As the effects of climate change become more apparent and pronounced, they can exacerbate existing mental health issues and create new ones.

While the idea of accessible mental health services is incredibly important and undoubtedly appealing, it is essential to critically examine the limitations and potential drawbacks of such platforms. BetterHelp may not always be the optimal choice for those seeking quality mental health care

When it comes to emotions, we often tend to associate positivity with happiness, joy, and contentment. However, negative emotions, such as anger, sadness, fear, and frustration, also play a vital role in our lives. While they may not be as pleasant to experience, negative emotions serve a purpose and offer various benefits that contribute to our overall well-being.

Feelings, emotions, and the capacity to experience them are integral aspects of the human experience. While some may view emotions as irrational or unpredictable, they play a crucial role in our lives. From shaping our decisions to influencing our relationships, feelings are an essential part of what makes us human.