In this episode Joseph and Paula explore the dynamics of social relationships—the good, the bad, and everything in between. What makes a friendship truly supportive? And how can you tell when a relationship is starting to become emotionally draining or toxic? From red flags like manipulation, competition, and one-sided effort to green flags like mutual respect, trust, and accountability, the co-hosts break down the key differences between healthy and unhealthy social bonds. They also share practical tips on setting boundaries, recognizing when to walk away, and how to prioritize your well-being in your social life.

Whether you're questioning a long-time friendship or learning how to build better connections, this episode offers insight and guidance you won’t want to miss.

Do you have any questions? If you have a question for Joseph and Paula to answer now or during a future episode of Questions for Counselors, reach out through the website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lifelivedbetter.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Info@lifelivedbetter.net ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

You can find information about this and other episodes on the website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lifelivedbetter.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Just a reminder - anything shared by the pair during this and all other episodes is based on personal experiences and opinions. It is not to be viewed as professional counseling or advice and is solely the opinion of the individual and does not represent their employers or profession.

Please consider rating, reviewing, and sharing our show with others. And remember, Knowledge leads to a Life Lived Better.

Resources used to create this episode:

Friendship: The Evolution, Biology, and Extraordinary Power of Life’s Fundamental Bond by Lydia Denworth

Greater Good Science Center – UC Berkeley https://greatergood.berkeley.edu

Mental Health America (MHA) www.mhanational.org

The Gottman Institute www.gottman.com

Apps You Might Want to Check Out:

Peanut (for women seeking community and friendship)

Meetup (find local interest groups and events)
Hey! VINA or Friender (apps to make platonic connections)

Circles (group support for people going through similar life experiences)