Episode 366: Explaining My Polyamorous Relationship & Supporting a Partner in Grief Over a Pet

Episode 366: Explaining My Polyamorous Relationship & Supporting a Partner in Grief Over a Pet

Author: Robert Duff, Ph.D. September 15, 2023 Duration: 47:09

Hello, everyone! I appreciate your attention and hope you are doing well.

In our first segment, we dive into a topic that's close to my heart - the evolution of my own marriage into a non-monogamous, polyamorous relationship. I unravel the intricacies of non-monogamy, elucidate the various terminology surrounding it, and give an insight into my personal journey of 'opening up'. If you're curious about polyamory, its various facets, or simply want to understand what it means to navigate such a relationship, this segment offers a comprehensive overview.

The next question touches upon a sensitive yet universal theme: grief. A listener reaches out, concerned about her partner's impending loss of his beloved cat, Jimmy, who has been a steadfast companion through some of life's most challenging moments. We discuss the profound impact pets have on our lives, the unique grief associated with their loss, and strategies to navigate this emotional terrain, especially when mental health challenges are at play.

As always, your stories and questions provide invaluable insights, making every episode a journey of discovery. If there's a topic or question you'd like addressed in future episodes, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For a detailed breakdown of today's episode, check out the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode366.

----

If you are looking for a quick and simple skin care routine that targets aged cells to promote longetivity that is backed by science, check out http://oneskin.co and use the coupon code DUFF for 15% off.

For many people, therapy and traditional medications are not enough to truly help their depression and anxiety. Luckily there are other options, such as Mindbloom, the leader in at-home ketamine treatment. Get $100 off your first series at http://mindbloom.com/duff and use the code DUFF at checkout.


Robert Duff, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist who finds most self-help advice too sanitized to be useful. On The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych, he cuts through the fluff with a direct, science-backed approach. Each episode is built on the premise that real improvement requires honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Duff brings his background in neuroscience and clinical psychology to interviews with a wide range of fascinating guests, dissecting topics from mental health struggles and relationship dynamics to the latest brain research. Listeners consistently note his skill at asking pointed questions that get to the heart of an issue, then translating complex psychological concepts into language anyone can apply. This isn't about quick fixes or vague positivity; it's a practical, evidence-based look at how our minds work and how we can work with them better. The tone is conversational and grounded, like getting actionable advice from a knowledgeable friend who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Whether exploring anxiety, habits, or the science of motivation, this podcast delivers substance without the jargon, making professional insights accessible for everyday life. You'll find the discussions are both deeply informative and surprisingly relatable, a combination that has built a dedicated audience for Duff's unique perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
Podcast Episodes
435: Moving Past infidelity & Coping with Sudden Medication Changes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:33
In this episode, I address two deeply personal listener questions that highlight the complex nature of anxiety and emotional healing in relationships. The first question comes from a listener who has struggled with anxie…
An Update From Robert [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:28
Just a quick update! Back to regularly scheduled programming next week!
Chapter From My NEW BOOK - Bipolar Answers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:58
Pre-Order Bipolar Answers https://www.amazon.com/Bipolar-Answers-Questions-Answered-Psychologist-ebook/dp/B0F1DW5WQZ/ In this special episode, Dr. Robert Duff announces the pre-order launch of his latest book, Bipolar An…
433: Stuck in Trauma & Embarrassed by Emotional Reactions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:47
Episode 433: Navigating PTSD Triggers & Overcoming Shame In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I tackle two listener questions related to PTSD, trauma, and the emotional challenges that come with them. The f…
432: What is High-Functioning Codependency? Terri Cole [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:21
In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with the incredible psychotherapist and author, Terri Cole, to discuss high-functioning codependency, boundaries, and how we can break free from people-pleasi…
431: Pathological Demand Avoidance & Persistent Low-Grade Depression [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:35
Episode 431: Pathological Demand Avoidance in Coaching & Persistent Depression Welcome to another episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Dr. Robert Duff! In this Q&A episode, Dr. Duff tackles two insightful liste…
430: The Truth About Recovery with Dr. Mala [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:37
Episode 430: Integrative Approaches to Recovery with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri In this episode of The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri, also known as Dr. Mala, to discuss her…
429: Coping with the Cruel World & Enduring Heartbreak [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:27
In this solo Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I answer two deeply personal and important listener questions. The first comes from a trans man struggling with the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, fear for…
428: Overcoming Self-Hatred with Dr. Blaise Aguirre [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:33
In today's episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with world-renowned psychiatrist, author, and DBT expert Dr. Blaise Aguirre to tackle the complex topic of self-hatred. As a pioneer in the treatment of bo…
427: THE Guided Meditation you need for 2025 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:58
In this special episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I lead you through a guided meditation designed to help you let go of mental burdens and find focus in an overwhelming world. Using visualization techniques and…