Betrayal Trauma

Here is what was covered in this episode: 

• I discuss betrayal trauma, emphasizing that it can occur in various forms beyond infidelity, such as in friendships, relationships, and family dynamics.

• I share some of my personal experiences with betrayal trauma.

• We talk about how betrayal trauma is essentially trust trauma, caused by someone close violating that trust.

• Emphasizes that betrayal trauma is not about the victim but rather the betrayer’s ego and selfish needs.

• Betrayal trauma can manifest in physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, manipulation, dishonesty, and stealing.

• Discuss the symptoms of betrayal trauma, including depression, shame, guilt, self-blame, difficulty trusting others, hypervigilance, and emotional dysregulation.

• I introduce the concept of “betrayal blindness,” where individuals avoid acknowledging betrayal to protect themselves from the pain.

• Healing from betrayal trauma requires time and space, allowing the nervous system to heal and process the grief.

• Stresses the importance of feeling and processing emotions through activities like journaling, therapy, and physical exercise.

• I highlight the duality of people and experiences, acknowledging both the good and bad in relationships to maintain a balanced perspective.

• I encourage listeners to keep moving forward and remind them that betrayal trauma is not about them but about the betrayer’s issues.