The invisible pain of estrangement

20/11/2025 40 min
The invisible pain of estrangement

Listen "The invisible pain of estrangement "

Episode Synopsis

Howdy psychology gang! Welcome back to a deep dive.Estrangement is one of the most painful and least understood experiences we can go through. It’s a loss without a funeral, a grief that doesn’t receive casseroles, community support, or cultural acknowledgement. In this deep dive, we unpack the complex psychology of estrangement through an attachment, trauma and psychodynamic lens.We explore:What ambiguous grief really feels likeParent–child estrangement The shame, silence and stigma that surround family cut-offsHow projections, defences and unresolved trauma shape these rupturesThe difference between protection, boundaries, and emotional avoidanceThe inner conflict of choosing to walk away or being the one left behindThis episode is a compassionate look at the grief of loving someone you can no longer reach, and the courage it takes to choose safety, repair, or distance. Whether you’re navigating estrangement yourself or supporting someone who is, we hope this conversation helps you feel seen, grounded, and a little less alone.You can find more of us here: Our Online Psychology practice: Did you know we have online appointments available with our amazing therapists Lisa or Maddie. Learn more here https://thepsychcollaborative.com.au The Thriving Therapists: To connect with a safe and supportive community of like-minded therapists, head to our Thriving Therapists Facebook group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/224252457083630/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvFOr find us on our Instagram: https://instagram.com/thethrivingtherapists?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==The Psychology Sisters Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thepsychologysisters/?hl=enThe Psych Collaborative instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thepsychcollaborative/?hl=enPlease note: this episode is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised psychological advice.