People sometimes approach me wanting reconciliation with their siblings. They share how they are encouraged by what they see, and hope that it can be maintained over time. What they see, are likely what are called “Turning towards” behaviors. In this article, we’ll discuss what exactly these look like, how their absence can damage theContinue reading “The Impact of Turning Away and Against in Sibling Relationships”
Tag Archives: mental-health
Breaking the Cycle of Self-Erasing in Sibling Relationships
Sibling estrangement brings with it different challenges and adversities. Some of these force us to adapt, grow, and become better versions of ourselves, amidst the experiences that come with either being estranged or in having to take a step back. But what if meeting the challenge involves becoming blind to ourselves? In this article, weContinue reading “Breaking the Cycle of Self-Erasing in Sibling Relationships”
Stopping Intergenerational Estrangement: Key Strategies
Every now and then, the question arises within our online support group with just how we can stop intergenerational estrangement. This is a perplexing question for a number of us, as we are highly conscious of what the effects of estrangement are, and don’t want them to be perpetuated to the next generation. It’s concerningContinue reading “Stopping Intergenerational Estrangement: Key Strategies”
The “Almost” Sibling Relationship
Estrangement happens in degrees. Contrary to what some people may think, it’s more than about simply being estranged or not. It can be wildly confusing when you may still be talking with your sibling, yet feel there is something missing. Perhaps it’s certain subjects that are off limits, or an emotional depth that you somehowContinue reading “The “Almost” Sibling Relationship”
Grieving the Sibling We Never Had
Every now and then, people in our community experience an overwhelming sense of sadness with their sibling estrangement, which is normal. And yet, another type of hardship can emerge, which is the realization of what we don’t have. Some people may quickly conclude that they shouldn’t be sad for the sibling they never had, andContinue reading “Grieving the Sibling We Never Had”
The Wisdom in being Estrangement-Informed
When it comes to being trauma-informed, certain key principles arise with respect to safety, trustworthiness, freedom to choose, mutuality, empowerment and cultural consideration. These are all important elements to ensure the well-being of individuals facing trauma. Just as with trauma, estrangement can appear invisible, until it is openly shared and spoken about. What would anContinue reading “The Wisdom in being Estrangement-Informed”
Sibling Estrangement 