“When we feel chosen, that is, that the people we choose are choosing us in return, this is paramount. Healthy close friendships are based on balance and reciprocity,” Dr. Miriam Kirmayer says.

Connection experts like Dr. Miriam Kirmayer suggest ways to cope with your relationships after lost pregnancies.

“When we turn toward avoidance, we turn away from healthier connections,” says Dr. Miriam Kirmayer, PhD, clinical psychologist and friendship expert.

Research suggests social media can have negative effects on our sleep, can increase feelings of depression and anxiety, and may actually be contributing to loneliness, says Dr. Miriam Kirmayer.

Everyone feels left out sometimes. It’s how you handle it that matters, according to experts like Dr. Miriam Kirmayer.

Ottawa-based clinical psychologist Dr. Miriam Kirmayer said the pandemic has highlighted unforeseen differences in people's perspectives and values.

A “toxic friendship” typically indicates that a function or expectation of the relationship has been challenged, says Dr Miriam Kirmayer. But can it be salvaged?

“Sometimes our friendships end because they no longer fit into our lives or routines,” said clinical psychologist and friendship expert Dr. Miriam Kirmayer.

Dr. Miriam Kirmayer, clinical psychologist and friendship expert, provides answers for how the pandemic may affect friendships.

Connection experts like Dr. Miriam Kirmayer help explain why it’s okay to feel normal during tumultuous times such as the pandemic.

The majority of friendships don’t necessarily end because of conflict, according to Dr. Miriam Kirmayer, an expert on adult friendships. More often, it’s a result of gradual distancing.

“It’s easy to assume that setting boundaries will come at the expense of our relationships, when often it is the very thing that allows us to continue to show up as a present, supportive friend,” Dr. Miriam Kirmayer says.

One of the essential elements surrounding this question is what self-care is at its core and what purpose it serves. According to Dr. Miriam Kirmayer, it’s ultimately about self-reflection.

Online peer-to-peer support groups can be an amazing place to find community. “The benefits of this are, obviously, hearing that other people are going through a similar struggle,” says Dr. Miriam Kirmayer.