New York Psychologist Offers Insight on How to Cope with Family Estrangement Family estrangements are a relational break from an individual's family of origin or extended family members. Since our family of origin are the first people we attach to, the loss of that relationship is heartbreaking. People are taught about the importance of family and how "the family comes first." Dr. Macaluso states that this stigma causes so much shame when dealing with a case. Yet, family estrangement cases are more common than one would like to believe. Estrangements can be generated by a young adult choosing no contact from a narcissistic parent. Conversely, some parents have to exercise tough love and cut off a child who is a drug addict. Sibling rivalry is also a foundation for siblings to stop speaking. Dr. Macaluso says that regardless of the estrangement type, they are world-altering because separations are not usually mutual. The abandoned family member is often crushed and confused, and the individual who decides to detach from their family is often traumatized by years of unhealthy dynamics. Dr. Macaluso goes on to say, "You are not obligated to be in a relationship with people who don't treat you well and who don't have your best interest in their heart and mind." It is the mantra to finding true happiness in life's relationships, family, or otherwise. https://www.nadinemacaluso.com/resources/ https://www.nadinemacaluso.com/nyc https://goo.gl/maps/FjLyV5La3da94mDc9