Being on your phone instead of listening when your partner is speaking as well using phones and cameras to monitor your partner’s activities are examples of how technology enters relationships. Our phones and other devices can interfere with intimacy and also help us avoid difficult conversations.

Sometimes following separation there is a hurdle in beginning to use the term, “The Ex,” when referring to your former husband or wife. There may be a journey towards speaking these words aloud, with support coming from colleagues, friends, family - even strangers - who have walked the path of separation before you.

Sometimes new or expectant mothers see media coverage of tragic loss in the postpartum and become concerned about “getting” postpartum depression. It’s important to talk to your providers and learn about local community resources for postpartum women.

Valentine’s Day can cause you to reassess where you are in terms of intimate relationships. Anxiety can creep in as friends find partners. Staying true to yourself, letting go of relationships that truly aren’t working, and remaining open to all the possibilities around you can lead you to your own special person.

Relationships with family, friends and intimate partners can bring us pleasure and pain. When difficulties arise, and discussions about the past are not going well, it can be helpful to stay focused in the present to rebuild trust and harmony.