Counseling for Betrayal Trauma
About Betrayal Trauma
Betrayal trauma refers to the emotional and psychological damage that arises when someone close to us—such as a spouse, partner, family member, or friend —violates our trust in a profound way. This kind of trauma can be particularly damaging because it often involves a deep-seated sense of betrayal from someone we depended on for support, safety, or love. The impact is compounded by the fact that the betrayal comes from an individual who was expected to be a source of stability and care, making the emotional wounds more intense and complex. Symptoms of betrayal trauma are virtually identical to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and often include:
Symptoms
A profound sense of confusion and disbelief, as the reality of the betrayal clashes with the person’s previous perceptions of the relationship.
Emotional Upheaval: Victims may experience a range of emotional responses such as anger, sadness, depression and anxiety, ambivalence. This emotional upheaval can be accompanied by a sense of profound disorientation or instability, as individuals struggle to reconcile their expectations with the reality of the betrayal.
Physical Symptoms: Betrayal trauma can manifest in physical symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, or changes in appetite, reflecting the significant stress and emotional turmoil involved.
Decreased self-worth, sense of safety and trust: Individuals also find it difficult to forge or maintain healthy relationships due to fear of further betrayal. The trauma may lead to a heightened state of vigilance or paranoia, where individuals become overly cautious or suspicious of others, and also cause them doubt their own inner sense of reality. They feel stuck in world with conflicting emotions and impulses, making self-care extremely difficult.
Ready to begin the journey?
Overall, betrayal trauma disrupts one's sense of safety and trust, making recovery a complex and often prolonged process. Reach out today to begin the recovery process.