Author: Vickie Helm
We’ve all encountered rejection at various points in our lives—be it in our careers, social situations, or romantic endeavors. While many of us can process these disappointments with relative ease, others may experience a heightened emotional response that feels inexcusably intense. This overwhelming reaction can lead to a cycle of hurt, creating conflict and negativity in relationships. In some cases, what’s being felt might extend beyond typical rejection sensitivity to what is known as Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). Recognizing Rejection Sensitivity in Relationships To better grasp how RSD could play out in everyday relationship scenarios, let’s consider a couple named…
The Art of Mindful Communication During Political Conversations Engaging in discussions at the kitchen table can often be tense, especially during elections when political divides seem to widen. Many of us are inclined to steer clear of contentious topics or sever connections after heated exchanges, whether in-person or online. The question arises: can we discuss these significant issues in a more thoughtful and healthful manner? Is there a method to approach polarizing subjects without creating further division? Mindful communication doesn’t equate to lacking opinions or avoiding discomfort. In fact, discomfort can routinely accompany crucial discussions. Yet, it’s important to recognize…
No matter their background, culture, or ethnicity, couples often encounter shared dilemmas: feeling unheard, unappreciated, and disconnected. Many couples approach me struggling with doubts about whether they possess what it takes to thrive in their relationship. Research provides clear insights into which relational dynamics can be repaired and which ones might indicate enduring challenges. Luckily, for many persistent issues that can be resolved, the solutions are 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀. These tools can be integrated into daily moments, and frequently diverge from the conventional wisdom we’ve been taught. Challenging Seven Common Relationship Myths Myth #1: Compromise is Essential…
In contemporary society, families exist in various configurations and sizes. Members of blended families, often termed stepfamilies, typically navigate multiple significant relationships. Children, in particular, require time to acclimate to alterations in their family dynamics and to embrace one or more stepparents when their biological parents remarry. Blended families can be formed through marriage or cohabitation. A blended family includes at least one parent with children from a previous relationship who are not the biological offspring of the other parent. When two individuals come together to create a new family, they step into the roles of stepparents to each other’s…
In her insightful work, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, Dr. John Gottman provides a compelling examination of relationship dynamics, revealing that an astonishing 69% of relationship issues are unsolvable. These challenges often stem from inherent personality traits or deeply rooted disagreements about finances. Gottman’s research underscores the importance of couples learning to manage conflict rather than trying to evade or eradicate it altogether. Attempting to resolve these persistent problems can lead to frustration, as it’s unlikely any couple will ever fully eliminate them. However, engaging in open discussions about these issues paves the way for growth and understanding.…