How Does Cheating Affect Mental Health?
The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
Infidelity. Cheating. Betrayal.
Whatever you call it, it’s a deeply complex and emotionally charged issue that can have lasting effects on individuals, couples – and even their children.
Let’s dive into the various dimensions of the aftermath of infidelity, especially its impact on mental health.
Initial Shock and Trauma
Discovering a partner’s infidelity can be akin to experiencing a traumatic event.
In fact, some experts use the term Post-Infidelity Stress Disorder (PISD) to describe the trauma response experienced by those who discover a partner’s infidelity. The response often looks a lot like symptoms associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
This is a deep and multifaceted pain experienced when trust is shattered in a primary or intimate relationship. The trauma can interfere with daily functioning, leading to fear, anxiety, heightened vigilance, and preoccupation with details of the cheating.
Think about it this way: love triggers the release of dopamine and oxytocin in the brain, creating feelings of euphoria. Infidelity disrupts these pathways, leading to changes in brain chemistry much like withdrawal in substance use disorder.
The rejection associated with cheating can have both short- and long-term consequences on the brain.
An Emotional Rollercoaster
People experiencing betrayal trauma may also experience denial, obsession, and a constant stream of questions about the affair. Doubts about the relationship and self-blame are common, plus anger, humiliation, and social anxiety.
This kind of pain can make someone feel unlovable, which impacts their self-worth and confidence over the long term.
Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health
The aftermath of cheating may lead to depression, anxiety, issues with self-esteem, intrusive thoughts, exhaustion, and high levels of stress. Coping mechanisms such as substance use can further exacerbate these challenges. Inner conflict, contradictory feelings, and disruptions in sleeping and eating patterns can become common.
The consequences of infidelity can extend over years, affecting emotional and mental health in profound ways.
Navigating these heavy emotions and losses is a demanding task, and seeking professional help is crucial for healing.
Recovery
Recovery from the betrayal of cheating is a process that often mirrors the stages of grief. The betrayed partner may undergo a range of emotions, including denial, anger, humiliation, and questioning. Research suggests that the pain may persist, causing chronic anxiety, post-traumatic stress, depression, and long-term mistrust of others.
Getting Help
It is possible to recover healthily from a partner cheating – and working through issues with a trusted counselor can make a huge difference. Going through therapy may help improve communication within the relationship and create a new, stronger foundation.
Combined with good, consistent self-care practices and a strong support system, speaking with a licensed counselor can help people cope with their emotions and move forward from infidelity in a healthy way.
In fact, some couples may find success by participating in cheating therapy, a specific form of marriage and family counseling focused on the relational aspects of resolving infidelity, while also prioritizing each partner’s individual mental health.
There’s little doubt that infidelity has far-reaching effects on mental health – impacting individuals, couples, and families. Recognizing the complexities involved, seeking therapy, and actively addressing the root causes of infidelity are essential steps toward healing.
While the road to recovery may be challenging, it is possible with commitment, understanding, and professional support.
