Trauma bonding is a process through which you begin to confuse abusive behavior for love.
It often starts out as magnetic, instantaneous love.
Whats really happening is that you and your partner are connecting over a shared wound.
Flora Westbrook
This is what draws you to one another, and then makes you commit compulsively.
It can be a continuation of a relationship from early childhood.
For many people, their initial trauma bonding happened when they were young.
This is what drives the person to attract and choose toxic relationships as an adult.
Trauma bonds solidify thanks to a two part cycle that can feel impossible to break.
You cannot be the person that saves them, and they make that your fault.
It starts to become the perfect storm of a neurochemical response and behavioral stimuli.
You have to stop confusing traumatic bonding for true love.
The best weapon we have to ensure that relationships are healthy, safe and mutually enjoyable is awareness.
Take your time
Healthy, sustainable relationships are a growing process.
Perhaps that means receiving professional help, or even just journaling and talking with friends.
It depends on your situation and the severity of your experiences.
Anything less is a red flag, one that warrants evaluation.
