Untangling the “We” after Long-Term Partnership
By Lisa Shanken
February 16, 2026
Following the discussions around high-profile breakups like TenZ and Kyedae, a common theme emerges: the difficulty of untangling your identity from a "we" back into an "I." When you have spent years as one half of a supportive duo, especially when navigating neurodivergent challenges together, the silence that follows a split can feel deafening.
The Support Vacuum
For many neurodivergent people, a partner often serves as a "body double," a primary co-regulator, or a safe harbor in a chaotic world. When that person is gone, the world can suddenly feel much louder and more overwhelming. This isn't just heartbreak; it’s a physiological shift in how you process your environment.
Rewriting Your Story
The end of a long-term relationship isn't a failure of the years spent together. In the case of TenZ and Kyedae, the years of mutual support during intense health and career milestones remain valid. A relationship doesn't have to be "forever" to have been successful.
Recovery for the neurodivergent adult involves:
- Sensory Audit: Noticing how your environment needs to change now that you aren't sharing it.
- Routine Building: Creating new anchors that don't depend on another person’s presence.
- Compassionate Narrative: Reminding yourself that your value exists independently of your relationship status.
Build Connections That Actually Fit Your Life
Authentic Connection is Possible.
Even after the hardest endings, neurodivergent individuals deserve—and can absolutely achieve—stable, fulfilling relationships. While high-profile breakups remind us of the risks, they also highlight the beauty of the resonance that is possible. Through education, peer support, and neuro-informed skill-building, you can find a partnership rooted in authentic growth.This is exactly why we created Love Bloom at Tri-Wellness. Whether you are starting over, or looking for "your person" for the first time, we want to help you navigate the dating world with clarity and support. Join us for Love Bloom on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, from 5:30 – 7:00 PM at Brewability in Denver, Colorado. Space is limited, so sign up now to secure your spot!
Lisa Shanken
My passion is to help you live your healthiest and most harmonious life, but in a way that’s realistic and practical for you as a unique individual on this planet. My philosophy is all about “balance,” never a diet since a diet is not sustainable for life, aka Kill The Diet.
Untangling the “We” after Long-Term Partnership
By Lisa Shanken
February 16, 2026
Following the discussions around high-profile breakups like TenZ and Kyedae, a common theme emerges: the difficulty of untangling your identity from a "we" back into an "I." When you have spent years as one half of a supportive duo, especially when navigating neurodivergent challenges together, the silence that follows a...
When “Goals” End—Navigating Breakups In The Public Eye
By Lisa Shanken
February 13, 2026
The recent news surrounding TenZ and Kyedae has sparked a lot of conversation about what it means to end a relationship that everyone else viewed as "endgame." For many in the neurodivergent community, seeing a couple that represented such deep mutual support and shared history part ways can feel discouraging....
Testimonials
Lisa’s weight loss plan really gave me a new insight to healthy eating and living. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2015. Healthy living/easting/exercise has become very important to me and my family and this program really helped me get even more on the course with this and helped me lose weight.
Danielle D, Great Neck, NY
When I heard about the 10 Day Weight Loss Challenge, I wasn’t sure if it would be a good fit, since as a physician, I understand nutrition and health (and therefore knew the dangers of fad diets, etc…), and I do my best to exercise (though not always enough). But as a single mother of 2, it’s still very challenging ti “fit in all in” (including cooking healthy meals for my children) due to my busy schedule. And when my time is short, bad habits crop up and weight gain follows.
Dr. Gila Ackerman, Boulder, CO
Psychiatrist
Lisa has made an enormous contribution to my health and strength. I have seen and felt the most fantastic changes in an amazingly short time.
Chessie F, Boulder, CO
I just wanted to say you were amazing through this 10 day process! I learned so much from you! You were very thorough in all areas of the challenge and got back to us in such a quick manner with our questions. It was a great jump start into a more healthy life style that’s for sure!
Colby E, Boulder, Colorado
I LOVE the recipes, simple, few ingredients, appealing. I like the idea of using the list of staples you provided when i was tempted to cheat!
Phyliss S, Spring House, PA
I worked with Lisa to develop a holistic wellness plan that has allowed personal growth without having to completely change my lifestyle. Her programs are designed around your personal needs, so I always feel like I've gotten the most from my sessions and leave with manageable goals. Lisa's three-prong approach to wellness (fitness, nutrition and health) is helping me live a balanced and grateful life.
Ali S., Boulder, CO
I’ve been through the ringer with different dieting plans through the years. Some helped me lose weight and some didn’t – but it didn’t matter because I would always gain it back. I didn’t know if this 10 day Weight Loss Challenge would be the answer since everyone says they have the “BEST” way to lose weight. But this one seemed to be more doable – like instead of starving myself, keeping track of calories (“been there done that – VERY annoying!”) and things I know I wouldn’t stick to.
Jill W, Park, NY
Lisa, you have been a very positive role model for me! Through the exercise and diet I’m becoming healthy and more positive about my life!!! Thanks!
