The Hardcore Therapist 83.5- How do I know if I’m in a trauma bond or a healthy relationship?

A trauma bond is when you’re deeply attached to someone who’s hurting you — emotionally, physically, or psychologically — and it’s that cycle of pain, then love-bombing, then pain again that makes you stick around.
 You’re basically bonded through repeated betrayal and emotional chaos.
 It’s that feeling of 'I know this is bad for me, but I can’t walk away.'

Key signs:

• You rationalize bad behavior constantly.
  
  
  
• You feel addicted to the highs and lows.
  
  
  
• You feel drained, not energized, after being with them.
  
  
  
• Your gut says 'get out,' but your heart says 'maybe it'll change.'
  
  
  
• There’s an uneven power dynamic — you’re walking on eggshells, they're walking free.
  
  
  

It’s NOT love. It’s survival mode dressed up like love.