The holiday season is quickly approaching. After a year of a pandemic, this year may already feel quite different. As a result, feelings of despair and grief may bury the anticipation of the holidays. Likewise, if being home more led to the discovery of a betrayal within your relationship, you may be dealing with betrayal trauma. So, instead of excitement about the upcoming holiday season, you may be feeling depressed, fearful, and anxious.
Betrayal trauma can quickly flip your world upside down. As a result, you may be feeling drastically different as this holiday season approaches. Add that on top of a year already full of stress and heartache, and you may be wondering if it's possible to enjoy the season.
Let's discuss some ways betrayal trauma may be affecting you. We'll provide a few ideas that might help make your holiday season a little brighter.
Betrayal trauma occurs after someone you rely on for safety or security violates your trust. For example, those who discover a partner's infidelity, porn, or sexual addiction can develop betrayal trauma. Likewise, those in abusive relationships are often living with the symptoms of trauma. The same can be true for children living in situations of abuse or neglect. They may also grow up with the effects of betrayal trauma.
Are you trying to embrace the holiday season with a heart full of cheer, but you just can't seem to get there? If so, your betrayal trauma may be the reason why.
Gatherings often take place during the holidays. However, you may be feeling a sense of dread rather than excitement. Let's discuss some things you can do that might help the holidays feel more enjoyable.
By preparing ahead of time, it may reduce your fears and anxiety that come with betrayal trauma. With a plan in place, you may find you're able to embrace your holiday season with a bit more anticipation.
For more ideas to help you enjoy your holiday season as you struggle with betrayal trauma, visit addorecovery.com.
Living with betrayal trauma can be very difficult. Likewise, it can diminish the excitement you feel as the holidays approach. Even with a plan in place, you may feel more driven to isolate than to try and deal with your anxiety in a public setting. However, there are ways to heal.
At Capstone Counseling and Coaching, we specialize in treating those with betrayal trauma. You deserve to be able to enjoy the holiday season. We may be able to help you work through your trauma; we'd love to hear from you today.
Please note we offer Betrayal Trauma Group Therapy and we have a new group starting January 4, 2021! It will be held on Mondays from 7:30 - 9:00 pm via a secure online platform. Email lori@capstoneatlanta.com for more information or call 770-744-5055 ext. 801. A brief phone screening is required before signing up.