Understanding Infidelity Trauma: A Deeper Dive
Infidelity trauma is the distress experienced when betrayal occurs within a romantic relationship, manifesting as infidelity or financial betrayal. This trauma provokes responses such as loss of self-esteem, numbness, anger, guilt, difficulty controlling emotions, intrusive thoughts, and various mental and physical symptoms.
When trust is broken, emotional dysregulation can occur, activating the fight or flight mechanism. Left unprocessed, trauma reshapes core selves, making normal functioning challenging.
Understanding the dynamics of betrayal is crucial for both the betrayed partner and the wayward partner. There are clear stages that each goes through, and being aware of the signs and how to navigate them prepares you for what lies ahead.