Psychologists Off the Clock

Psychologists Off the Clock


343. Heartbreak with Florence Williams

February 21, 2024

Heartbreak, a universal experience that can leave us feeling lost and questioning ourselves. We've all been there. It's a painful journey, that's difficult to process and navigate. In a conversation everyone can relate to, we bring in the author of Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey. Florence Williams reflects on her personal experience facing divorce and draws upon science to explain the negative impacts of rejection, loss, and loneliness. We also unravel the mystery behind our actions during heartbreak-actions that seem to defy our values and norms. Whether you are a therapist treating clients going through heartbreak or experiencing heartbreak yourself, Florence will transform your understanding of health and love by combining scientific research with self-discovery.


Listen and Learn: 
  • What transpired in Florence's personal life that led her to write Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey

  • Tapping into the fundamental human emotion of awe
  • The healing properties of nature, and its integral role in Florence's journey 
  • Is divorce diabetes a thing?
  • Do men and women have different experiences recovering from divorce?
  • Can Takotsubo syndrome (also known as broken heart syndrome) be linked to postmenopausal women?
  • How nature immersive experiences can lead to transformation, connection, and healing, and Florence’s recommendations in your area!


Resources: 


About Florence Williams: 

Florence Williams is a journalist, author, and podcaster. Her first book, BREASTS: A Natural and Unnatural History received the Los Angeles Times Book Prize in science and technology and the 2013 Audie in general nonfiction. The Nature Fix was an Audible bestseller and was named a top summer read by J.P Morgan. Her latest book, Heartbreak, was called “show-stopping” and “courageous” by Publisher’s Weekly. She is a contributing editor at Outside Magazine and a freelance writer for the New York Times and numerous other publications. A fellow at the Center for Humans and Nature and a visiting scholar at George Washington University, Florence’s work focuses on the environment, health and science. A certified forest-bathing guide and experienced workshop leader, Florence loves leading groups through nature-immersive experiences and watching the transformation, connection, and healing that results. 


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