Let's shed some light on the signs of relationship trauma. It's important to recognize these signals so that we can heal and move forward. Here are some indicators that you might be experiencing relationship trauma:
1️⃣ Trust issues: Difficulty trusting others, even in healthy relationships.
If you've experienced relationship trauma, trust has been broken at its very core. When a person who was supposed to love and protect you no longer honors that sacred promise, the whole world suddenly feels more dangerous. If you notice a swing in your ability to trust others, it may be because your trust has been broken in a significant way.
2️⃣ Fear of abandonment: Constantly worrying that your partner will leave you.
In unhealthy and toxic relationships, it's common to feel a deep fear about being abandoned. Toxic people will give love then take it away without warning and that creates uncertainty in a relationship. Partners begin to try to figure out what they have done to cause the loving behaviors to stop and try everything they can to restore connection. This cycle creates a trauma bond and makes it incredibly hard to separate from a toxic partner.
3️⃣ Low self-esteem: Feeling unworthy of love or believing you don't deserve happiness.
If you have been told through words or actions that you are not worthy of love, it's easy to believe it. But God tells us the opposite. He tells us we are chosen, beloved, and created by him for a purpose. Relationships that demean or dis-empower us are traumatic and create deep wounds.
4️⃣ Emotional numbness: Struggling to connect with your own emotions or with others.
Trauma is designed to protect you from danger. Just like an electrical panel in your home, it will disconnect your emotions when they are on overload. Having a sense of numbness (even about positive experiences!) is a signal that your nervous system is on overload and needs help processing the trauma.
5️⃣ Repeating unhealthy patterns: Continuously finding yourself in similar, toxic relationships.
We tend to find comfort in the familiar, but if you are most familiar with toxic traits, it's a sign of relationship trauma. You CAN learn how to identify safe people and find ways to protect yourself from the unsafe people in your life.
Remember, healing is possible, and acknowledging these signs is the first step towards recovery. We'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences and insights in the comments below, and let's support each other on this journey to healing and growth. #relationshiptrauma #healing #selflove
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