Building Stronger Connections: Relationships, Trauma, and Men’s Mental Health with Kristal DeSantis

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode, host Sana sits down with Kristal DeSantis, a licensed marriage and family therapist, to explore the foundations of healthy relationships. Kristal shares the inspiration behind her "STRONG" model for building meaningful connections and dives into critical topics such as men's mental health, the impact of trauma, and attachment styles on relationships. They discuss self-awareness, stress management, and the need for trauma-informed approaches to foster resilience and intimacy. A thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the importance of emotional safety, connection, and growth in modern relationships.

About the Guest:

Kristal DeSantis is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the creator of the "STRONG" model for healthy relationships. With years of experience, she specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate trauma, attachment styles, and relationship challenges. Kristal is passionate about promoting men's mental health, emotional resilience, and connection. She also works with first-responder couples, offering strategies to balance the demands of high-stress careers with family life. Follow her on Instagram for insights, tools, and more resources on building strong relationships. Listeners can get the book on Amazon and connect with Kristal on Instagram and check out her website - www.strong.love/

Key Takeaways:

1. Healthy Relationships Start with Self-Awareness

   • Self-regulation and stress management are crucial for creating a strong relational foundation.
   • Balance independence with interdependence for a harmonious partnership.

2. Trauma and Attachment Styles Shape Connections

   • Past experiences and trauma influence perceptions of safety and connection in relationships.
   • Understanding and addressing attachment dynamics can improve communication and intimacy.

3. Men’s Mental Health Needs Attention

   • Societal conditioning often discourages men from seeking emotional support.
   • Encouraging emotional safety and connection is vital for men’s well-being and relationship health.

4. Strong Relationships Require Resilience

   • True strength lies in vulnerability, emotional regulation, and mutual respect.
   • A trauma-informed approach helps navigate stress and build lasting connections.

5. Practical Tools for Growth

   • Small, consistent actions in real-life situations lead to meaningful progress.
   • Kindness, safety, and respect are universal principles in all relationships.

Discover more about Kristal’s "STRONG" model and her work on Instagram and stay tuned for future discussions on men’s mental health. Check out the show notes for resources, links, and Kristal's contact information!