Floyd Godfrey, PhDBy Floyd Godfrey, PhD
Betrayal trauma is an often-overlooked form of emotional and psychological injury that can cause profound physical symptoms, closely mirroring those of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Whether stemming from infidelity, sexual addiction, or emotional betrayal in intimate relationships, the trauma experienced by victims can manifest in ways that affect both their mental and physical health. Clinicians like Dr. Kim Buck have significantly contributed to understanding this link, particularly in how betrayal trauma triggers responses similar to PTSD. Drawing from my experience as a Clinical Sexologist and Certified Sex Addiction Specialist, this article will explore the physical symptoms of betrayal trauma and explain how they compare to PTSD, highlighting the role of therapeutic interventions in addressing these impacts.
Physical Symptoms of Betrayal Trauma
Betrayal trauma does not only affect the mind; it also manifests in the body. Many clients I’ve worked with report a range of physical symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues. These physical ailments often go undiagnosed, as they are mistakenly attributed to other causes. However, they frequently stem from the stress response triggered by the emotional shock of betrayal.
According to Dr. Kim Buck’s research, betrayal trauma can activate the same neurobiological pathways as PTSD. This means that the body remains in a heightened state of alert, often referred to as “fight, flight, or freeze” mode. Clients often describe feeling "on edge" or hypervigilant, always expecting something bad to happen. This state of constant alertness can lead to sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and even heart palpitations. Such physical manifestations are a direct result of the nervous system's response to the perceived threat of betrayal.
How Betrayal Trauma Resembles PTSD
The overlap between betrayal trauma and PTSD lies primarily in how the brain processes trauma. When clients discover a partner’s betrayal, particularly involving sexual addiction, their brains often respond as though they are under physical threat. This response is typical in PTSD, where the amygdala, the brain's fear center, becomes hyperactive. In both cases, the individual may experience flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and nightmares related to the traumatic event.
In my practice as a Certified Sex Addiction Specialist, I have seen firsthand how betrayal trauma victims struggle with emotional regulation. Similar to PTSD, they often experience mood swings, irritability, and difficulty managing stress. These emotional challenges are compounded by physical symptoms, creating a vicious cycle of pain and distress. The trauma-induced physical reactions—sweating, nausea, or trembling—are not merely psychological responses but are deeply rooted in the body’s survival mechanisms.
The Role of Therapeutic and Coaching Interventions
Addressing both the emotional and physical symptoms of betrayal trauma requires a holistic approach. Therapeutic interventions, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Somatic Experiencing, are especially effective in treating trauma responses similar to those in PTSD. These modalities focus on releasing trauma that is "trapped" in the body, helping clients manage their physiological reactions to betrayal. As a Certified Sex Addiction Specialist, I have found that integrating these trauma-focused therapies with sex addiction recovery programs significantly improves healing outcomes for my clients.
Additionally, psychoeducation plays a vital role in recovery. By helping clients understand the biological underpinnings of their trauma, they can better navigate their healing journey. Education empowers them to recognize that their physical symptoms are not signs of weakness but are a normal response to the trauma they’ve experienced. When combined with personalized coaching, clients can develop strategies to calm their nervous systems, reestablish trust, and regain control over their lives.
Betrayal trauma, especially when tied to sexual addiction, profoundly impacts both the mind and body. However, with proper therapeutic support, individuals can work through these symptoms and achieve long-term recovery.
Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Clinical Sexologist and a Certified Sex Addiction Specialist. He has been guiding clients since 2000 and currently speaks and provides consulting and mental health coaching across the globe. To learn more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD please visit his website: www.FloydGodfrey.com.
