The word narcissist gets used a lot these days, not just for exes or family members, but to describe celebrities, influencers, and political figures who crave attention, cause harm and/ or avoid accountability. Having language for harmful behavior can be empowering, but the overuse of the term also creates confusion.

When most of us feel anxious, we’re told to breathe, take a walk, or use coping skills to get through the moment. These tools can help calm the nervous system, but often they don’t go deep enough.

Many people grew up in families where love and care were present, but emotional connection and maturity were not. If you’ve ever felt like you were the emotional adult in your relationship with a parent, or like your feelings weren’t acknowledged or understood, you’re not alone.