389. How to experience healthy love after toxic love

After toxic love, healthy love can feel surprisingly hard to recognise because you’ve likely learned to expect chaos, inconsistency, and emotional whiplash. In this episode, we unpack what toxic love actually looks like, how it shapes your beliefs about love in your 20s, and why calm, consistent connection can feel suspicious or even ‘boring’ when you’re used to intensity. We explore:•        What toxic love is and how it intersects with abusive•        How this reshapes trust, pessimism, and your expectations of people•        The role of neurochemistry, addiction, and intermittent reinforcement in toxic bonds•        Self-sabotage and self-esteem•        The role of attachment patterns over time•        What healthy love and conflict actually feel like•        Practical ways to lean into safe love If you’re conflicted between craving consistency or chaos, this episode is for you.   Watch on Netflix   Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast Subscribe on Substack: @thepsychologyofyour20s For business: [email protected]    The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.