In this episode of "The Psychology of Your 20s," Jemma Sbeg discusses the phenomenon of "post long-term relationship puberty," which describes the character shifts, growth, and exploration that often occur after a long-term relationship ends in one's 20s. She explores the reasons behind breakups before turning 30, including temporal landmarks and the "7-year itch," and why people experience personality changes afterward, such as making up for lost time or reacting against the constraints of the past relationship. Jemma also addresses the milestone anxiety and feelings of wasted time that can arise, offering advice on embracing the new phase, minimizing contact with the ex, and prioritizing self-care. The episode concludes with answers to listener questions about staying in unfulfilling relationships, reaching out to exes, feeling pressured by the biological clock, and dealing with an ex moving on.
