Have you ever had a fight with someone that starts off small but then suddenly turns super personal, like you’re back in primary school, trading playground insults?

In this episode of But Are You Happy, clinical psychologist Dr. Anastasia Hronis shares how to have what I call a “good fight” — one that’s free from criticism, defensiveness, and all those traps we fall into when emotions run high.

You'll also learn:

• What a bad fight looks like
• The difference between expressing a complaint and criticising someone
• The types of negative communication
• How to have a "good fight" that's fair and respectful

Watch the podcast on YouTube here.

If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Both services are available 24/7 for free, confidential mental health support.

Want to get in touch with us? DM @butareyouhappypod on Instagram or send us a voice memo. Our hosts are ready to hear your dilemmas—think of it as free therapy!

CREDITS:

Hosts: Ashani Dante & Dr Anastasia Hronis

Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This mum & daughter have been asked to reflect on the default behaviours that keep them stuck in the unhelpful dynamic they’re in when conflict arises, and what to seek more positive and helpful behaviours that foster connection and communication.

This session explore how trauma, mental health challenges and other diagnoses can impact even our closest relationships, and what real repair looks like.

Listen to Part 1 of Leisel & Ellie's sessions here.

Resources (Australia-only)

• 1800RESPECT: The national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling, information, and support service.
• Beyond Blue: For support with anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention.
• Lifeline Australia: For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
• Motivated Minds: Learn more about host Sarah Bays’ practice.
• Relationships Australia: A leading provider of relationship support services for individuals, families, and communities.

The End Bits

• Want To Be On This Is Why We Fight? Apply here.
• Host: Sarah Bays
• Executive Producer: Naima Brown
• Studio Engineer: Lu Hill
• Audio production: Thom Lion and Jacob Round

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leisel & Ellie used to be quite close, the kind of mother and daughter that shared clothes and loved spending time together. But, after a series of traumatic events, they went through a long period of estrangement and miscommunication that left them both heartbroken. They’re hoping that therapy can help them rebuild and repair their relationship.

Listen to Part 2 of Leisel & Ellie's sessions here.

Resources (Australia-only)

• 1800RESPECT: The national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling, information, and support service.
• Beyond Blue: For support with anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention.
• Lifeline Australia: For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
• Motivated Minds: Learn more about host Sarah Bays’ practice.
• Relationships Australia: A leading provider of relationship support services for individuals, families, and communities.

The End Bits

• Want To Be On This Is Why We Fight? Apply here.
• Host: Sarah Bays
• Executive Producer: Naima Brown
• Studio Engineer: Lu Hill
• Audio production: Thom Lion and Jacob Round

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.