Marriage and other long term relationships can be wonderful, but they can also be tough. It's natural to expect--and even believe--that romantic partnerships should last forever. Yet, in real life, many love relationships fall apart due to factors such as ongoing differences, a lack of connection, betrayal, health issues, or abuse. And, in some cases, a terrible combination of these issues can cause the relationship to slowly fray or explode. It can be tempting to stay--to weather the storm and hope it gets better--but sometimes the healthiest option is making that tough choice to exit the situation. And while divorce and other relationship endings can come with many heavy costs ranging from financial struggles to deep emotional drain, sometimes the price you pay to stay is far more devastating. Join me and a brilliant self-care advocate, attorney, and former domestic violence judge, Michele Locke, for a deep dive into unhealthy relationships, narcissism, and divorce. Topics discussed include marriage, long-term relationships, narcissism, narcissistic abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse, spiritual abuse, financial abuse, support groups, self-growth, courage, communication, self-care, self-love, anxiety, fear, physical health, children, parenting, finances, domestic violence, survivors, victims, and boundaries.

Please note that this episode may contain sensitive material; 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" or "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline). Support/informational links are in the show notes.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert in this (or any episode) is offering medical or psychological direction; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

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Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:

Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com

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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 Michele Locke:

Website: https://www.michelelocke.com/

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-locke/

Podcast: https://www.michelelocke.com/podcast

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