Get my new book Cleaning up Your Mental Mess here: https://www.cleaningupyourmentalmess.com Download my new and improved brain detox app here: https://neurocycle.app Sign up to join my free text program and receive mental health care tips. Just text DRLEAF to 1 (833) 285 3747 SHOW DESCRIPTION: In this podcast I answer another question from a listener on toxic relationships and trauma bonds. Trauma bonds are chains that link a victim to someone who is dangerous to them within the confines of an exploitive relationship. Divorce, employee relations, child abuse, family and marital systems, domestic violence, kidnapping, exploitation and religious abuse can all be areas of trauma bonding. All these relationships share one thing: “they are situations of incredible intensity or importance where there is an exploitation of trust or power”. Read the show blog here: https://drleaf.com/blogs/news/trauma-bonding-toxic-emotional-attachment-how-to-know-when-to-stay-when-to-go-how-to-find-healing-freedom OFFERS FROM OUR SPONSORS: -BiOptimizers Magnesium: For an exclusive offer for my listeners go to http://www.magbreakthrough.com/leaf and use DRLEAF10 during checkout to save 10% on your order. -Framebridge (frame your photos, keepsakes or artwork, or send someone the perfect gift!): Go to Framebridge.com and use the promo code DRLEAF to save an additional 15% off your first order. -MeUndies: Get 15% off your first order and free shipping at meundies.com/DRLEAF. -PlushCare, a company that makes it easy and simple to find a health professional in your area, which I love, especially with my busy lifestyle! Start your membership today. Go to https://plushcare.com/drleaf/ to start your FREE 30-day trial. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: 2:05 What a trauma bond is 4:20 Trauma bonding and exploitation 9:00, 33:40 Gaslighting and other relationship warning signs 11:02, 29:00 Why we can never “fix” someone else 14:00 Why boundaries are so important in a relationship 14:24 Sometimes ending a relationship may be the best thing for both people 19:00 How a trauma bond can impact your health 24:50 How to help someone who doesn’t want to change while putting up boundaries 35:15 Why trauma bonds are so confusing 36:45 How relationships change your mind, brain and bond 44:00 How to use mind management to heal trauma from toxic relationships 51:05 Tips to help heal a trauma bond ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: -Visit my website at https://drleaf.com for more free resources Follow me on social media for daily mental health tips & strategies: -Instagram: @drcarolineleaf: https://www.instagram.com/drcarolineleaf/- -Facebook: Dr. Caroline Leaf: https://www.facebook.com/drleaf -Twitter: @drcarolineleaf: https://twitter.com/DrCarolineLeaf -Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/drcarolineleaf If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5 review on iTunes, Google Play, or wherever you are listening! And don't forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends and family! I love seeing your posts on social media! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.