Boundaries All Articles

Are You in a Relationship With a Dark Empath? Why That’s Cause for Concern

This common personality type knows just what you are feeling, and uses their understanding to manipulate you. Here’s what you need to know to recognize a dark empath and avoid falling under their sway.

By Jennifer King LindleyDec 27, 2023

A man and a woman sit close to each other, talking. It’s not always easy to tell the difference between an empath and a dark empath.

7 Relationship Red Flags That Crop Up Over the Holidays and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them

Experts share what alarming signs and behaviors to look out for during the holidays and how to evaluate whether they’re relationship deal breakers.

By Paige Jarvie BrettingenDec 6, 2023

Broken Christmas tree ornament balls on a light blue background

Therapists’ Strategies for Dealing With Difficult Family Members

No one knows how to push your buttons like your family does. Here are some strategies for navigating challenging family dynamics and setting boundaries to help you get through difficult family gatherings unscathed.

By Paige Jarvie BrettingenNov 13, 2023

Mother and adult-aged daughter embrace while standing on the beach.

Surviving Toxic Family Relationships: When to Set Boundaries and Walk Away

Is your family toxic? Here is how to handle toxic family members, set healthy boundaries with them, and know when it's time to walk away for your mental well-being.

By Paige Jarvie BrettingenJul 6, 2023

Woman wearing mustard yellow coat walking in the rain holding an umbrella while crossing a city street.

Is It Love or Is It Love Bombing? 5 Red Flags to Help You Spot the Difference

Over-the-top expressions of love might seem like nothing but sheer romance. But when those gestures are a tactic, you have the makings of a love-bombing disaster and a situation ripe for an unhealthy dynamic. Here’s how to spot relationship red flags and the difference between love bombing and infatuation.

By August McLaughlinJun 5, 2023

Portrait of a young couple, faces obscured, dancing inside a smoke cloud under a neon light and magical atmosphere.

How Can You Spot a Real Narcissist? 4 Traits to Look For

Learn how to spot a real narcissist by understanding the key differences between self-obsession and genuine narcissism, and discover the four core traits that define a true narcissist.

By Natasha BurtonJun 5, 2023

Woman wearing a red dress admires herself in a mirror.

Are You Being Gaslit? Here Are 9 Ways to Handle It

If someone’s trying to gaslight you, here is advice from experts on how to respond to a gaslighter in any situation, whether it’s a boss, relative, or romantic partner.

By Hoku KruegerMay 16, 2023

A man and a woman looking at each other from opposite colored backgrounds.

What Is Gaslighting? 8 Signs You’re Probably Being Gaslit

Experts explain the devastating impact a gaslighter can have and how to spot one in your own life, be it a boss, relative, or romantic partner.

By Hoku KruegerApr 10, 2023

Woman with melancholy expression on her face sits alone in a cafe, staring down at the empty table in front of her.

Why Saying No Is Important for Your Mental Health — and How to Do It Kindly

Here’s what the experts say about why holding boundaries is necessary and how to say no gracefully to minimize guilt.

By Natasha BurtonNov 8, 2022

White woman with long brown hair sits on a chair by a windo reading a book.

How to Survive Father’s Day When You Have a Complicated Relationship With Your Dad

If your relationship with your father is challenging, or even nonexistent, here are strategies for approaching Father’s Day that honor these complexities.

By Natasha BurtonJun 13, 2022

Woman journaling alone in the outdoors to prepare for a difficult father's day gathering