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Virginity is Not Hot

Virginity is Not Hot

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'He won't respect me in the morning.' The GalTime Guy says that's just crazy. Is waiting worth it?

By SMF Marcus Osborne for GalTime.com It’s been a while since I really ticked someone off. I mean, I’ve been on a serious streak of low-keyness. This is a clear indication that I’m going soft. Not that I’m intentionally trying to incite a digital riot over here, but I do try to challenge conventional wisdom and get men and women open and honestly communicating. Soooooo…. ..let’s talk virgins!

Top 5 (Best &Worst) First Date Conversations

Top 5 (Best &Worst) First Date Conversations

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First date frenzy: If religion, politics and exes are off the table, what will we talk about?

Uncomfortable silences, awkward pauses. We've all been in those kinds of conversations. But they can be ten times worse when they happen on a first date! So, how do you keep the conversation flowing? We asked Dan Abelon, co-founder and CEO of SpeedDate.com for his top five first date topics.

Navigating Life's Big Changes With Ease

Navigating Life's Big Changes With Ease

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Making the changes in your life work for you.

How many transitions are you in the midst of right now? More often than not, when we're experiencing change in one area of our lives, there's a pretty good chance that things are shifting and moving in other places as well. Not Murphy's Law, but probably a first cousin. Even if you're keeping your head above water, I'll bet that there are all kinds of hidden gremlins (unmet needs, unresolved feelings, incomplete conversations) swimming around in the murky waters around you, waiting to grab hold when you least expect it. That's the nature of change.

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5 Tips To Escape An Abusive Relationship

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How to escape abuse and stay out of harm's way.

If you or someone you care about is in an abusive relationship, there are ways to break away and stop the cycle of domestic violence. I have personally experienced physical and emotional abuse, and lived through the challenges associated with rebuilding my life as the single parent of a young child. I am here to say that it is not only possible to survive, but it is possible to thrive with the right support and commitment. With these tips, my hope is that you will feel empowered to love yourself.

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3 Types Of Depression: Which One Rings True For You?

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How to tell whether your depression will pass on its own or if you require professional assistance.

Nicole is having an "off" day. She didn't do well on her history exam and isn't sure what her plans are for the weekend. I guess you could say that Nicole has a case of the blues. As the day progresses, she shakes off the history exam and figures out a way to earn some extra credit to make up for the less-than-stellar grade. Later that night, her friend Jim calls and asks if she is going to the party at Jake's house. She says that she didn't know about the party but will attend nonetheless. Nicole calls Ginny and tells her about the party and they agree to go together. As Nicole falls asleep that night, life feels okay once again.

The Sadness That Won't Go Away

The Sadness That Won't Go Away

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Do you suffer from Major Depressive Disorder?

If you or someone you know has been feeling sad most of the day and can't seem to shake that down feeling, perhaps it is Major Depressive Disorder. In most cases, depression is a treatable condition. Depression can happen to anyone. It can be caused by a traumatic event, a change in body chemistry, or a sense of deep loss. In some cases, an inherited family pattern can spark the depression. This is called a predisposition for depression.

Being Depressed Can Ruin A Man's Sex Drive

Being Depressed Can Ruin A Man's Sex Drive

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Depression has a strong hold on men's appetites for pleasure ..

Loss of Pleasure: Depression, by clinical definition, causes a person to lose interest or enjoyment in things that once pleased them. It can seem like a gradual disconnection from the world, a drawing away from sensations, people, and activities. Depression impacts every area of a man's life and, of course, his sex drive can be affected profoundly.

Depression’s Secret Plan For Your Identity

Depression’s Secret Plan For Your Identity

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Stop depression from controlling your life.

We've all come to know the experience of the blues, being down, heartbreak, disappointment, sadness, or what some might even call depression. All too often the worst part of the experience isn't even the sadness or the bad feelings themselves, but rather the way sadness is able to change the way we see ourselves, our past, and our hope for the future. Depression may try to convince you that it holds the true assessment of your personality, weaknesses, and limitations but before you become completely convinced by depression there are a few things you should know.

How A Secure Relationship Can Help Your Depression

How A Secure Relationship Can Help Your Depression

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We all know that when our primary relationship is distressed, we feel anxious and depressed. We also know that depression can have a devastating effect on an intimate relationship. It becomes a vicious cycle. There have been numerous studies documenting this fact. Relationships with a depressed partner are often characterized by negative communication, blame, withdrawal, irritability, loss of motivation, and loss of sexual interest. It has also been shown that there is a reduction in positive behavior such as eye contact, smiling, and the ability to enjoy pleasurable activities together.

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Break Up Gracefully: 10 Rules To Help You Keep Your Cool

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How to end your relationship with class and style.

Breakups are never easy. Whether you dated someone for 90 days or were in a marriage for nine years, the decision to end a relationship is painful. Aside from the inherent pain, breakups can become quite cruel. It can be tempting to hurt your ex as a way of validating your anger and sadness. The immediate urge to protect your wounded ego can cause you to lose perspective. Regardless of how much anguish you feel, try to keep your dissolution dignified. The more ethically you act, the more elevated you will feel. Moreover, remaining in a constant state of distress and negativity is emotionally (and physically) detrimental. Here are nine ways to end your relationship gracefully.