Understanding Betrayal Trauma: What You’re Experiencing Is Real
Betrayal trauma can shake the foundation of your reality, leaving you to question everything. If you’ve been betrayed by a spouse through infidelity or sexual addiction, what you’re feeling is real and valid. Let’s explore the nature of betrayal trauma, its profound impact on your emotional and physical well-being, and why it is a normal reaction to a deeply abnormal situation. What Is Betrayal Trauma? Betrayal trauma occurs when someone you deeply trust violates that trust in a profound way. It’s not just about broken promises. It’s the sense of safety, connection, and stability that’s been shattered. Your brain perceives this breach of trust as a threat, triggering intense emotional and physical responses. The Mind-Body Connection in Betrayal Trauma When betrayal happens, your mind and body react as though they’re under siege. The psychological toll can manifest in various ways—anxiety, depression, confusion, and anger are common emotional responses. You may feel disconn...