How to overcome infidelity
Most of the time, we think certain things won’t affect us until they do. A perfect example is infidelity. We may see it as an issue reserved for public figures, or any married couples, but doesn’t apply to us. Sadly, unfaithfulness is something that can happen to any of us.
Around 25 percent of marriages (and 40 percent of unmarried relationships) face issues with infidelity, considering online infidelity and solely emotional affairs.
Most people agree that a sexual affair counts as infidelity, while others can consider a flirty text to count. Connecting online with an ex or maintaining an online dating profile count as unfaithfulness. What constitutes an act of unfaithfulness depends on the definition of it for the specific relationship.
There are different causes that can lead to infidelity. It can be due to problems in the relationship or personal problems, but not matter what the reason is, the real question is: how to overcome an infidelity.
Let’s start by learning the meaning of infidelity, also known as cheating. Infidelity is being emotionally or physically unfaithful to a partner breaking the commitment of loyalty during the act.
Sometimes infidelity can be confused with adultery, which is engaging in physical, sexual activity, and may be considered a criminal offense and grounds for divorce in certain places.
It’s normal to have feelings of sadness and anger; you’ll most likely have a mixture of several emotions.
At Life and Therapy, we have some tips that can help you overcome infidelity.
Do not avoid your feelings. When having negative feelings such as sadness, anger, fear, confusion and some others, it’s natural to try to hide them. You have to be aware that those feelings can be with you for some time. It will take time to get past the pain of being fooled.
Face the truth, after you take time to accept your feelings, you need to face the truth. You need to understand that your relationship has changed, and it’s necessary to acknowledge your new reality. By the time you’re ready to talk with your partner, it’s better to do it when you’re not feeling angry and having clear thoughts. Taking decisions with anger will lead to rash decision-making.
Time for you. During difficult times, your physical and mental health can have different reactions, such as sleeping problems (hypersomnia or insomnia), difficulty concentrating, not wanting to eat/overeating, and other symptoms. Try your best to eat healthy, improve your sleeping habits, create a new routine that includes exercise, visit your family or friends, read, and all the activities that make you feel better. It’s important to avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can lead you into more problems such as depression or addiction.
Healing time. Taking time to heal is very important. There are no set rules for determining when a relationship is or is not worth saving. You must decide this matter by yourself. If you think that your relationship is worth more than being single, both partners will have to make constant efforts.
Counseling. You don’t have to go through unfaithfulness alone. Making decisions and coping with a lot of emotions isn’t easy at all. Looking for a counselor, who will be neutral and has experience with these situations, is a good idea.
At Life and Therapy, you will have the suitable help that you need as an individual or as a couple. Joanna Baez, M.S. Counseling Marriage, Family and Child Therapy, LMFT, ADC, M.D.: Family Practice is a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Professional with 9 years of experience working as a Facilitator and Psychotherapist in California, specializing in affordable online therapy. Contact us today and let us help you find your life support and comfort!