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Joan Herrmann
How Trauma Bonds Impact Relationships and What ...

A trauma bond is a deep emotional attachment that forms between a person and their abuser, typically as a result of repeated cycles of abuse and intermittent reinforcement. It is a psychological response to intense, often manipulative emotional experiences that create confusion, loyalty, and dependency — even in the face of harm. Unlike healthy attachment, trauma bonding is rooted in fear, shame, and control rather than trust, safety, and mutual respect. This type of bond can be especially difficult to recognize and break, as the relationship often swings between periods of intense connection and episodes of abuse or neglect.

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Joan Herrmann
Why People Act Like They Don't Care — What to ...

It’s one of the most painful feelings in the world: wondering if the people you care about care about you in return. Maybe they don’t say “I love you” often. Maybe they don’t check in as much as you’d like. Maybe they feel distant, distracted, or emotionally unavailable. Whatever the reason, when someone doesn’t show they care in the ways you need, it can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and alone. But here’s the truth: not everyone knows how to show love — and their silence doesn’t always mean they don’t care.

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Joan Herrmann
Dating Later in Life: Challenges, Changes, and ...

Re-entering the dating world later in life can be both exciting and overwhelming. For many, the experience brings a mix of emotions — hope, anxiety, self-doubt, and even frustration. The dating landscape has changed drastically (and that’s an understatement), and the confidence once felt in youth may now be replaced with feelings of inadequacy or fear of rejection. However, despite these challenges, later in life dating can also be an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and yes, even love.

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Joan Herrmann
Four Strategies To Help You Grow From A ...

There is an old adage: breaking up is hard to do. Most of us at one time or another have suffered the pain of a broken heart. While we know that hearts don’t literally break, it can be hard to believe that’s true when a relationship has ended. It feels like the place that was once filled with love has been shattered to pieces.

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Joan Herrmann
Why Engaging with Others on Social Media Can ...

In today’s digital world, where the lines between innocent engagement and emotional betrayal are blurred, this situation raises an important discussion: When does social media behavior cross the line, and should it be considered a form of cheating?

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Accept the Unacceptable

When people do not receive the outcome they desire, they experience a range of emotions. Some get angry, protest, and blame themselves or others. Some get despondent, feel hopeless, and sink into a depression. Many get entangled with woulda, coulda, shoulda type thoughts, that continue to fuel their emotions. Whatever a person’s modus operani, learning to accept what is and surrender the notion of what was wanted, is vital in order to achieve peace of mind and heart.