Stress and trauma deeply affect our mental well-being and can significantly impact our relationships with others. This can include affecting the way we think, feel, and behave in relationships. It is very common for people who have experienced trauma to notice changes or challenges in their relationships, including difficulties with:
- Intimacy and trust
- Sex drive
- Communication
- Avoiding people, places, or conversations
- Attachment (e.g., feeling overdependent, detached, or overprotective of others)
Several kinds of relationships can be impacted after stressful or traumatic experiences. These can include professional relationships with:
- Superiors
- Mentees
- Teammates and colleagues
- Patients and their families
As well as relationships outside of work, including:
- Partners
- Children
- Parents and family members
- Friends
- Pets
- Strangers