5 Keys To Feeling Better When You Are Estranged

At least 27% of individuals in the United States are estranged from one or more family members. Women over 60, who culturally prefer not to air their family’s laundry, are often shrouded in secrecy. Indeed, this makes a lot of sense; all the uncertainty, shame, guilt, and feelings of abandonment can take their toll.

There is a slow retreat away from talking to friends, especially if all is well in their Camelot Castle. However, keeping secrets can further complicate your well-being.

Estrangement is the relatively recent term to describe when family members experience physical and or emotional distance. Kylie Agilias, a social work researcher and educator from Australia, defines estrangement like this:

“The condition of family estrangement involves being physically and or emotionally distanced from one or more family members, either by choice or at the request or decision of the other. It is generally enacted to reduce implicit or explicit conflict, anxiety, or tension between the parties. It is characterized by a lack of trust and emotional intimacy, disparate values, and a belief that resolution is highly unlikely, unnecessary, or impossible.”