If you're confused because of losing an abusive parent, it's because your brain is grappling with a deep biological conflict, and this creates understandable chaos. Your system is wired to seek safety through attachment to this person, yet they were an are also a source of danger and fear. This conflict leads to complex, intertwined emotions, like grief mixed with anger or relief, which are a core part of grieving someone who held such contradictory roles. Read on to learn about your complex grief and how to move through it with compassion.

Betrayal's pain isn't just in romance; it can deeply wound our childhood trust. "Betrayal blindness" develops as an unconscious way to cope with this early hurt. However, these unseen wounds, sometimes called betrayal wounds, can shape our adult relationships and our ability to trust. Recognizing these patterns is the first step towards healing and building healthier connections.