Repairing trust is an essential step in overcoming the trauma of betrayal – and so is commitment | Diane Young

When trust is shattered, the emotional impact can be devastating. But despite the pain it can bring, it is still possible to rebuild and heal

• The modern mind is a column in which experts discuss mental health issues they are seeing in their work

Betrayal trauma can be an overwhelming experience that can leave deep emotional scars for years, if not a lifetime. Whether it occurs in romantic relationships, friendships or family dynamics, betrayal breaks the foundation of trust that holds relationships together. Repairing trust is the essential first step to healing and overcoming betrayal trauma. This journey requires time, effort, patience, and - most importantly - a commitment to rebuilding what was lost.

Sue* was on the brink of retirement when she discovered that her husband had been unfaithful. We had planned to do a big trip to Europe for four months when I turned 65, but that came crashing down when I found emails from another woman," she told me during our first session.