What Are Trauma Bond Withdrawal Symptoms?

Breaking free from a trauma bond can cause a range of painful symptoms, but healing is possible.

Trauma bond withdrawal refers to the intense distress that happens when a person tries to break free from a trauma bond — a deep emotional attachment that develops between a person and their abuser. Victims of a trauma bond usually feel a strong emotional attachment to their abuser due to a cycle of abuse mixed with intermittent reinforcement (moments of kindness). So, similar to withdrawal from an addiction, the victim experiences a range of painful emotional and physical symptoms as they distance themselves from the abusive relationship. In fact, the withdrawal process can be so challenging that many victims feel compelled to return to the toxic relationship just to alleviate the discomfort. Below we delve into common trauma bond withdrawal symptoms and how to manage these debilitating withdrawal symptoms. 

Common trauma bond withdrawal symptoms

Trauma bond withdrawal symptoms can be intense and multifaceted, affecting both the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of the person trying to break free from an abusive relationship. Here are some common symptoms:

Emotional symptoms

Emotionally, people may experience powerful cravings to reconnect with their abuser, despite knowing the relationship is harmful. This is often accompanied by anxiety, panic attacks, and deep depression, making it difficult to find joy or motivation in anything. Feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a sense of profound guilt or shame are common, as the victim may struggle with self-blame for the abuse or for leaving the relationship. Confusion and self-doubt frequently arise, often due to manipulative tactics like gaslighting, leading to difficulty making decisions or trusting oneself. There may also be anger and resentment, both toward the abuser and oneself.

Physical symptoms

Trauma bond withdrawal can manifest as insomnia or disturbed sleep, including frequent nightmares related to the trauma. Appetite changes, such as loss of appetite or overeating, are common, as is persistent fatigue and low energy due to the emotional toll. Psychosomatic symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension, can occur without a clear medical cause but are linked to emotional stress. Restlessness and a constant feeling of being on edge further complicate the healing process.

Psychological symptoms 

The psychological symptoms of trauma bond withdrawal often include severe cognitive dissonance, where individuals experience conflicting thoughts about their abuser, feeling both love and recognition of the abuse. This internal conflict creates significant mental distress and makes it challenging to move forward. Additionally, victims may struggle with persistent self-doubt and confusion, exacerbated by manipulative tactics like gaslighting, which leave them questioning their own perceptions and decisions. These psychological challenges can significantly impair their ability to trust themselves and navigate the recovery process.

Coping strategies for trauma bond withdrawal

Coping with trauma bond withdrawal can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help people manage the symptoms and begin the healing process. Here are some coping strategies:

1. Seek professional help 

To cope with trauma bond withdrawal, it’s helpful to seek professional help, such as therapy, where you can understand your feelings and develop healthy coping strategies, and support groups, which connect you with others who have had similar experiences. Building a support network is also crucial; leaning on trusted friends and family for emotional support, and setting boundaries by limiting or cutting off contact with the abuser, can protect your well-being.

2. Practice mindfulness and self-care 

Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to manage your emotions, and consider journaling to process your thoughts. Regular exercise can also boost your mood and reduce stress. Reframing negative thoughts is another important step; work on recognizing and challenging negative thoughts about yourself, and use positive affirmations to remind yourself of your worth and strength.

3. Be patient with yourself 

Give yourself time to recover, and celebrate even small steps toward progress. These strategies can help you manage the symptoms of trauma bond withdrawal and support your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. fulfilling life.

How Charlie Health can help

If you or a loved one are struggling with symptoms from trauma bond withdrawal, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions, including complex trauma from psychological abuse, trauma from an abusive situation, and more. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With treatment, managing trauma bond withdrawal symptoms is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.