Listener SubscriptionBeing partnered is often used as evidence that loneliness shouldn’t exist. In this episode, I talk about why that assumption keeps people stuck — and how loneliness can show up even inside a relationship that looks stable, consistent, and intact.I break down how emotional isolation is often created not by absence, but by a series of small, reasonable-seeming choices: staying agreeable instead of specific, staying regulated instead of exposed, and prioritizing stability over honesty. Over time, those choices quietly disconnect people from themselves and from each other.This episode looks at the difference between restraint and avoidance, why swallowing your truth can feel like maturity, and how loneliness often appears immediately after you choose not to say what actually mattered.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why loneliness can exist inside a relationship, not just outside of one.How prioritizing peace, stability, and being “reasonable” can slowly erode emotional presence.The moment where loneliness actually begins — and why it’s easy to miss.If you’ve ever felt alone while technically being with someone, this episode explains what’s happening underneath — and why that feeling isn’t random.Xxoo DarcyREFERENCES/RESOURCESwww.alternativescounseling.comCREDITS“We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Robyn Jaenchen. DISCLAIMERInstagram:@drdarcysterling Facebook:Dr.Darcy SterlingTik Tok:@doctordarcysterling X:@DrDarcySterling YouTube:@DarcySterling Threads:@drdarcysterlingWatch this episode here on YouTube.Listener Subscription

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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