We typically associate grief with loss through death, but the world of loss is much more complex. One of the most profound and often misunderstood forms of grief arises from the shattering experience of betrayal, particularly in the context of infidelity within a committed relationship. This is betrayal trauma, and understanding it as a form of deep grief is crucial for healing from an affair.

When a friend confides that they've been betrayed by infidelity, it's a moment that stops time. You see the raw pain, the confusion, and the sheer disbelief in their eyes, and you desperately want to make it all disappear. This guide offers compassionate advice on how to support your friend through the devastation of betrayal trauma, validating their feelings and offering practical ways to be a steady force.