Relationships

We all get jealous occasionally—but retroactive jealousy can make someone start obsessing over their partner’s romantic past. Retroactive jealousy, also known as Rebecca syndrome, can be so intense that it can derail a person’s relationship, mental health, and ability to trust others.  Although this type of relationship anxiety can warp…

Narcissism can be a harmful pattern that impacts both the lives of those who have it and the people around them. This impact often leads people to question: Can narcissism be treated? Can a narcissist really change? The answer is yes, those with narcissism or narcissistic traits can change. The…

Infidelity, or cheating, is one of the leading causes of relationship strain—with more than 60% of divorced couples citing infidelity as a reason for their divorce [1]. Engaging in physical or emotional intimacy with someone outside the relationship can breach trust and cause sometimes irreparable damage to a relationship’s foundation….

Emotional vulnerability is an important part of a successful relationship. For some, emotional closeness and vulnerability come naturally, but for others, communicating emotions and forming close attachments feel very uncomfortable. Others may feel the need to avoid them altogether. If you notice that you shy away from emotional intimacy, forming…

Relationships are complex and unique, and even the most common relationship problems look different for every couple. Sex issues, including mismatched sex expectations, are deeply personal and extremely common.  Sex can be an uncomfortable topic of discussion for people, but when sex stops in a relationship, it can cause confusion…

Attachment styles are emotional bonding patterns originating from early interactions and relationships with primary caregivers. Though these patterns are not always readily noticeable, they can significantly influence adult relationships by shaping expectations and behaviors toward intimacy, connection, and dependency. Everyone has an attachment style—some are healthy and secure, while others…

Living with a partner who has depression can be a deeply challenging experience for both people. That’s why for those in a relationship, understanding the symptoms and effects of depression is crucial for providing the right support. This article explores the common signs of depression, offers communication tips, and emphasizes…

Relationships can be tough enough to navigate without one or both partners suffering from faltering mental health. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at the thought of identifying and understanding mental health dynamics in a relationship, it’s very doable.  A great first step is to practice mindfulness skills and strategies,…

The term “karma” refers to a spiritual law of cause and effect, suggesting that our actions in past lives can influence our current circumstances and relationships. In the context of relationships, a karmic relationship is believed to involve individuals who have a connection based on past actions and experiences in…

Transactional relationships form a crucial aspect of our daily interactions, governing the dynamics in various areas of business, legal affairs, and personal dealings. These relationships are primarily based on the exchange of goods, services, or benefits, where each participant has clear expectations of receiving equivalent value.  This guide explores the…

Our team at Thriveworks recently interviewed one of our clinical experts to find out more about what it means to “play the victim,” why people do it, and how to deal with someone when they play the victim. These insights are provided by Dr. Brandy Smith, a Licensed Psychologist with…

Separation anxiety is a set of symptoms characterized by intense anxiety when separated from a support system or loved one. If symptoms are intense enough and begin to interfere with one’s daily life, it can be a sign of a deeper issue called separation anxiety disorder — a disorder with…