Is it possible to overcome cheating in marriage?
When discovery of cheating in marriage occurs, whether it’s sexual or emotional cheating, it can cause intense waves of emotions for both partners.
Cheating in marriage for the betrayed spouse:
Discovery of cheating in marriage can be devastating for the betrayed spouse. Intrusive thoughts and strong emotions can take over at times causing similar symptoms as PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder).
Often times cheating in marriage contains many secrets and once discovered can continue the cycle of intrusive thoughts. Betrayed spouses often start replaying events in their minds to determine what was “true” and what wasn’t.
Cheating in marriage for the spouse that had the affair:
Many strong emotions are also happening for the spouse that had the affair. Fear of losing what they have in their marriage. Shame or guilt. Fear of never being trusted again by their spouse.
Each partner is impacted by cheating in marriage. And while it is possible for marriages to continue after an affair, it does require time and commitment.
Overcoming cheating in a marriage often needs professional help by a trained couples therapist or marriage counselor. Because of the complexities cheating has on relationships, it’s important that you both are in a professional space that can help both of you. A professional space that can provide the relationship help you’re looking for.
Grief after Cheating in Marriage
It is possible for couples to stay together after discovery of an affair has happened. But it is important to grieve the many losses that can happen as a result of an affair.
Couples need time to grieve these losses in their own way. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each partner is experiencing their own loss, some might be similar and some different and unique to each person. This is where working with a trained professional therapist can help.
Relationship after Cheating in Marriage
It is possible for couples to begin working toward rebuilding trust and repairing after an affair. But I would recommend seeking professional help throughout this process.
Healing is possible and an affair does not have to mean the end of your marriage. Relationship help is available.
By: Anna McElearney, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only.