Understanding the Symptoms of Betrayal Trauma

When we think of betrayal, we usually associate it with cheating or infidelity in romantic relationships. Betrayal, however, can happen in any type of relationship, including friends, family members, and even within professional settings. Betrayal trauma is a type of psychological trauma that occurs when someone we trust or rely on breaches our trust. The effects of betrayal can be overwhelming and long-lasting, leading to a host of emotional and physical symptoms.

In this blog, we'll explore the symptoms of betrayal trauma, how it affects our brain and body, and what we can do to heal from it. If you're struggling with the aftermath of betrayal, know that you're not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you overcome this difficult experience.

Emotional Symptoms

Betrayal trauma can cause a range of emotional symptoms, These symptoms include:

• anxiety

• depression

• anger

• shame

• nightmares

• irritability

You may feel like you can't trust anyone anymore or that you're constantly on guard for the next potential betrayal. Your self-esteem and confidence may also take a hit, as you struggle with feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness.

Physical Symptoms

Betrayal trauma can also manifest in physical symptoms. Physical symptoms of betrayal trauma include:

• headaches

• insomnia

• gastrointestinal issues

• fatigue

• weakened immune system

These symptoms are a result of the stress and heightened emotions that come with betrayal trauma. Our bodies respond to stress in various ways, and the physical symptoms are a sign that we need to take care of our mental health as well.

Cognitive Symptoms

Betrayal trauma can impact our cognitive processing, making it difficult to concentrate, remember things, or make decisions. You may also experience intrusive thoughts or memories related to the betrayal, making it hard to move on from the experience. It's important to recognize that these symptoms are a normal response to betrayal trauma, and there are tools and techniques available to help with cognitive restructuring and processing.

 Behavioral Symptoms

Betrayal trauma can also affect our behavior, leading us to isolate ourselves from others, engage in numbing activities such as substance abuse or eating disorders, or experience outbursts of anger and aggression. These behaviors are a result of the strong emotions and difficulty in coping with betrayal trauma. It's important to seek support and resources to help manage these behaviors and learn healthier coping mechanisms.

 Relationship Symptoms

Finally, betrayal trauma can have a significant impact on our relationships. We may have difficulty trusting others or forming close connections, and we may struggle with intimacy or vulnerability. Betrayal trauma can also affect our ability to communicate effectively in relationships, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings. With the right support and resources, it is possible to rebuild relationships and work towards healing from the trauma.

Betrayal trauma is a complex and difficult experience to navigate, but with the right tools, support, and resources, it is possible to heal and move forward. If you're struggling with the symptoms of betrayal trauma, know that you're not alone, and there is help available. Seeking therapy or counseling, joining support groups, and practicing self-care can all be helpful in managing the emotional, physical, cognitive, behavioral, and relationship symptoms of betrayal trauma. Remember that healing from betrayal trauma is a process, and it takes time and effort to work towards recovery.

At Ray Family Therapy, all of our therapists are trained to help you heal from betrayal trauma. If you are interested in exploring therapy, please click the button below for a free 20-minute consultation.