Society tells us that family bonds are unbreakable -- that your sister should be your best friend, that you should call your mom several times a day just to chat. Well it's great when life works out like that. But the truth is, that often isn't the case. This week Jaime tackles the difficult topic of family estrangement with the help of therapist Melanie Storrusten. They go in-depth on Jaime’s own struggles with her mom and siblings -- which she traces back to the death of her dad when she was 17 years old -- and answer questions from listeners. Is it possible to cut off your mom without hurting her? What should you do if other people in your family shame you for creating boundaries for yourself? Plus, how to talk about your family in social situations if you are estranged from them.   FYI: Tell Me What To Do contains mature language and themes that may not be suitable for all listeners.   Please note, this show is hosted and produced by a team that does not have any clinical or other mental or physical health training. If you are having a health or mental health crisis or emergency, please contact 911. For non-emergency mental health and addiction needs, try https://www.samhsa.gov for national and local resources.  You can digitally purchase life insurance from Haven Life Insurance Agency at www.havenlife.com/tellme. Haven Term is a Term Life Insurance Policy (ICC17DTC) issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111 and offered exclusively through Haven Life Insurance Agency, LLC. Policy and rider form numbers and features may vary by state and not be available in all states. Our Agency license number in California is 0K71922 and in Arkansas, 100139527. For the sake of your beauty sleep, go to helixsleep.com/tellme to get up to $200 off your first helix mattress (plus two free pillows) To make eating well easy and affordable, go to greenchef.com/tellme80 to get $80 off your first month plus free shipping on your first box Talkspace online therapy works with thousands of licensed therapists. Use the promo code TELLME to get $100 off your first month and help support the show at talkspace.com For additional resources, information, and a transcript of the episode, visit www.lemonadamedia.com/show/tmwtd  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices