Why do certain people leave you completely drained?

Why do certain people leave you completely drained?

August 11, 2026 · 18 min · Episode 568

About this episode

Dr. Judy Ho explores the psychology behind emotionally draining relationships and offers tools to protect oneself from energy vampires.

568. You know that feeling. Five minutes with a certain person and you need a three-hour nap. You leave the conversation and realize you've given everything while receiving nothing. Energy vampires are real — and the science behind why they drain you is more interesting than the term suggests. This week Dr. Judy Ho unpacks the psychology of emotionally depleting relationships: what's actually happening in your brain and body during these interactions, why some people are far more vulnerable than others, what distinguishes the unconscious drainer from the deliberate one, and three tools to protect yourself without becoming someone who cuts off everyone who's ever had a hard day. Have a mental health question? Email Dr. Judy's team at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com Find Savvy Psychologist on  Facebook and subscribe to the  newsletter  for more psychology tips. Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SavvyPsychologist More from Dr. Ho on her other channels: Dr. Ho's website , Substack , LinkedIn . Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips. Find a transcript at  QuickandDirtyTips.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Host: Dr. Judy Ho

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Organizations: Savvy Psychologist, QuickAndDirtyTips.com, Acast

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