Office Ours: The Truth About Toxic Friendships

What if the word "toxic" is actually getting in the way of understanding what's really going on in your friendship? Dr. Miriam Kirmayer explores why the term toxic has become a shorthand for any difficult friendship, and why this label might be obscuring the real work needed to heal or end a connection. She explains how the language of toxicity can provide a temporary sense of relief or false clarity, but often fuels shame and limits our options for growth. Dr. Miriam breaks down three crucial dimensions (severity, chronicity, and scope) to help listeners differentiate between friendships that are truly damaging and those that are simply taxing. She offers actionable paths for navigating these challenges, whether that means working through them with an antidote conversation, creating necessary space with a detox, or acknowledging when it is time to let go entirely. And, stay tuned for a quick journaling exercise to try this week on one friendship that's been on your mind. This one is for anyone who gets that sinking feeling when a certain name pops up on their phone. *Pull up a chair, Office Ours are in session.* -- Your friendship questions deserve answers. Reach out at hello@thetwopeasonapod.com, on social media or, pick up the phone and call or text with your friendship story or questions at 615-PODLINE (That's 615-763-5463).  Stay in touch with us:  - @thetwopeasonapod - @miriamkirmayer - www.miriamkirmayer.com --  Two Peas on a Pod is hosted by Dr. Miriam Kirmayer. Executive produced by Zoe Travis, Matthew Hoffman, Katya Kaminsky, and Dr. Miriam Kirmayer. Produced and edited by Podcast Nation (Producers: Madison Brit and Alesha Pannier, Audio Engineer: Miles Carter). Original music by Sarah Walk. Created by Zoe Travis and Matthew Hoffman. Two Peas on a Pod is recorded in Montreal and Los Angeles. Cover photo by Katya Kaminsky.   Today's show contains information that is for educational and entertainment purposes only. This program is not a substitute for psychological or medical advice. Please seek out your own support and research as needed. Take care, friends.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.