by Milena Koljensic | Jan 14, 2025 | CPTSD, Dr. Jamie Huysman, Holiday Stress, Holidays, TAR Network, TAR Tales
The holiday season often brings a mix of joy and stress, but for millions, it can trigger feelings of sadness, loneliness, and isolation. An estimated 14% of adults experience “holiday blues” each year, with symptoms ranging from irritability and guilt to...
by STAR Network | Dec 9, 2024 | CPTSD, TAR Network, Toxic Relationships, Trauma
One of the most painful tactics in covert narcissism is turning family members against you. This manipulative strategy, designed to isolate and control, often pulls loved ones into the narcissist’s web to unknowingly serve as “flying monkeys”—trusted people who,...
by STAR Network | Oct 30, 2024 | CPTSD, Dr. Jamie Huysman, TAR ANON, TAR Network, TAR Tales
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I find myself reflecting deeply on the strength and resilience of women—especially my mother. Her life was complex, filled with unspoken struggles and sacrifices that, even now, I’m only beginning to understand. She was a...
by STAR Network | Aug 14, 2024 | CPTSD, Dr. Jamie Huysman, TAR ANON, TAR Network, TAR Tales
Question of the day: Why would the victim of a toxic abusive relationship emotionally bond with the person who is inflicting that harm on them? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is complex and often misunderstood. Trauma bonding can lead to profound...
by STAR Network | Jul 30, 2024 | CPTSD and Narcissistic Abuse, CPTSD and PTSD, Dr. Jamie Huysman, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, TAR ANON, TAR Network, TAR Tales
When you hear the word “narcissist,” what images come to mind? In my world, “narcissist” is a term that’s both overused and misunderstood. In common vernacular, it can be inflammatory and insulting, but in medical circles, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a...
by STAR Network | Jul 23, 2024 | Boundaries, CPTSD, CPTSD and PTSD, CPTSD Partner Support, Dr. Jamie Huysman, Emotional Wellness, Gaslighting, Guest Contributor, TAR ANON, TAR Network, TAR Tales
Have you ever woken up on a sunny day only to realize by mid-afternoon that the sky had darkened and heavy clouds were threatening rain? You might have had no idea when the sun had ducked behind a cloud or when the day had darkened. That’s what toxic relationships are...
