We often believe that our given family--the ones we are connected to by birth--should be our greatest friends and allies. And it's normal for us to expect our family members to love us and keep us safe. Yet, in real life, many people discover that negative family dynamics affect them in the most troubling ways. If this resonates, you may have experienced the deep pain of feeling outcast or isolated by the very ones you love with all your heart. So, whether you feel as if you don't belong in your family, your friend group, work setting, or any other area of your life, you'll find wisdom, support, and comfort in this uplifting episode.

Join Dr. Carla and mental health expert J.F. Benoist--author of the best-selling book, Addicted to the Monkey Mind, and his newest book, Avive la Vie--An Adventure in Belonging, for a powerful journey into self-discovering, self-growth, and the art of being free. Topics discussed include relationships, family, estrangement, disconnection, anxiety, fear, love, family dynamics, gaslighting, abuse, boundaries, self-care, self-love, self-growth, addiction, suicide, alcoholism, emotional safety, self-connection, correction, criticism, parenting, attunement, secure attachment, insecure attachment, anxious attachment, self-worth, lovability, friendship, friends, connection, community, pets, interconnection, and imperfection.

Please note that this episode contains sensitive material including a mention of suicide; listener discretion is advised.

Emergency Assistance Note: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Support/informational links are in the show notes.

Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:

Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.carlamariemanly8543

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

Books by Dr. Carla Manly:

Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend

Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly

Aging Joyfully: A Woman's Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond

The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships

Oracle decks by Dr. Carla Manly:

Etsy

Amazon

Connect with :

Website: https://www.jfbenoist.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfbenoist/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr0zvG3DruBIWT_esqixaBg/videos

Books by J.F. Benoist:

Avive la Vie : An Adventure in Belonging

Addicted to the Monkey Mind: Change the Programming That Sabotages Your Life

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/