How Can Mindfulness Help You Cope With Betrayal Trauma?

What is Mindfulness? 

Mindfulness is the ability to remain in the present moment. It is sitting with how you feel physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Rather than labeling or judging your thoughts as they come, mindfulness is about being in a state of curiosity.

There is a connection between mindfulness and self-compassion. When your loved one struggles with addiction, it may be difficult for them to show or feel empathy for you. As a result, it may cause you to question your reality, which can magnify your trauma. 

You may fear that focusing on these difficult emotions will give them strength. However, it generally has the opposite response. By acknowledging your feelings, you also permit them to rest. 

How Does Mindfulness Help You Cope With Betrayal Trauma? 

If you have betrayal trauma, trusting anyone--including yourself--may be difficult. This lack of trust can disconnect you from your authentic self. As a result of this disconnect, it can increase the body's trauma response. Mindfulness is the practice of remaining in harmony with yourself. Likewise, it can cultivate a genuine connection within and can generate self-compassion.

According to mindful.org, people who practice self-compassion can experience less resentment. They can also improve their emotional resilience. (mindful.org) 

There are specific techniques used to reduce the body's trauma response. Examples include:

• deep breathing
• physical exercise
• soothing touch
• practicing compassionate statements 
• "I am safe." 
• "I am not alone."

When you take time to connect to your authentic self, you are less likely to spiral in your trauma. 



Mindful.org lists the five parts of being mindful. They are:

• observation
• description
• acting with awareness
• being nonjudgmental
• being nonreactive 

Learning how to embrace your thoughts rather than letting them take over allows you to stay present. 

You can cultivate connection and self-compassion through mindfulness. At NOVA Counseling, we can help you acquire this useful skill. Likewise, we can help you through the process of healing from your betrayal trauma.