Why Is Regaining Trust in Relationships Such an Issue with Many?
Trust is a staple in all healthy relationships. However, when trust becomes broken whether through cheating or lying, the relationship becomes compromised. For many couples who are in these situations, the questions they often ask are why is it difficult to restore that trust and why does it require so much energy and time.
Why Is Regaining Trust a Problem?
After a person you love betrays your trust, it alters the person's feeling of safety and connection. Trust is usually built back slowly, consistently coming back in small doses. It is important to recognize that all it can take for a partner to go back to square one is when the partner feels vulnerable. The walls we put up become even higher as self protection is present.
Trust can usually be rebuilt only in positive environments, where new experiences help counteract the hurt caused by betrayal. It takes a lot of practice to bring back a sense of peace. This is the reasoning why many couples turn to therapy for support.
How Couples Therapy Helps with Trust Issues?
Improving Communication: Therapy and emotions are interrelated and therefore are not supposed to be bottled up. Seeking therapy allows couples to express their thoughts and emotions freely and positively. Stronger relationships can heal a couple even before the issues in conflict are dealt with.
Centering Boundaries and Expectations: Counselors train spouses on the most appropriate boundaries and expectations that each has for the other partner. This could mean honesty, routine communication, or being more vulnerable. These skills can help rebuild a sense of security.
Creating Positive Experiences Together: To rebuild trust, couples need new positive experiences. A therapist might encourage small acts that show dependability, like keeping promises or being present for each other. Over time, these actions can lead a partner/partners to feel safe again.
Practicing Patience and Self-Compassion: Rebuilding trust can oftentimes be a process. A therapist can help both partners understand that healing takes time and requires patience. They may also encourage self compassion to reduce either clients personal frustration, increasing their positivity.
How Long Does It Take to Rebuild Trust?
There’s no set timeline for rebuilding trust, it's different for every person and couple. Studies show that consistent, positive interactions, clear communication, and emotional support are essential to help rebuild trust. For some rebuilding trust can take months. For others it may take years. The important thing is that both partners are committed to the process.
Rebuilding trust after it’s been broken can be very challenging, but couples therapy can help. With patience, open communication, and a commitment to healing, it can be possible to restore a relationship’s foundation. At Uplift Psychotherapy Center, we’re here to support you on this journey. To schedule a session, click here!
