Rebuilding trust after betrayal

When someone breaks your trust in a relationship, it can make you feel emotionally unsafe. This can occur early on in a relationship or even after being together for some time. A specific example discussed is when someone lies about how their last relationship ended, withholding the fact that they cheated. Such betrayal can be deeply unsettling. The common response is to seek advice from friends, who might advise immediate termination of the relationship. However, it is important to have open and honest communication with the person who hurt you. By voicing your feelings of unsafety and discussing your triggers and past experiences, you provide an opportunity for the person to understand and work towards rebuilding trust. It is crucial to remember that it is not your job to make yourself feel safe about the other person - that is their responsibility. You reserve the right to protect yourself and set boundaries, and it is their task to demonstrate genuine change and offer reassurance. Radical honesty and active efforts to address concerns and vulnerabilities are essential for rebuilding trust.