What is Abandonment and How do I heal?

Abandonment is a term that is often used to describe the feeling of being rejected or by someone. However, abandonment can also refer to a physical act, such as when someone leaves you without any warning or explanation leaving you with a feeling of extreme loss. Regardless of the cause, abandonment can be a very difficult and painful experience. If you’re struggling with feelings of abandonment, know that you’re not alone and there are ways to heal. Keep reading to learn more about what is abandonment and how you can begin to heal from this hurtful experience.

What is Abandonment?

Abandonment can be understood in many ways, but can generally be defined as the voluntary forsaking or giving up of something. Emotional abandonment in particular  is when someone close to you chooses to emotionally distance themselves from you, or withdraws their emotional support. This can be due to various factors, including but not limited to:

– Falling out of love

– Change in values or lifestyles

Mental health issues

– A traumatic experience or event

Physical abandonment on the other hand , is when someone voluntarily leaves you without any warning or explanation. This, of course, can be a traumatic and confusing experience, especially if the abandonment was abrupt or unexpected.

How Does Abandonment Impact an Individual?

Abandonment can have a significant impact on an individual, causing feelings of depression and insecurity. Abandonment is likely to be accompanied by a sense of betrayal, as well as guilt and self-blame. That feeling of being discarded can have long-lasting effects, resulting in a fear of not being accepted or connected with others, even if those relationships are healthy or helpful. It may also lead to difficulties in developing meaningful connections in the future due to feelings of mistrust. Additionally, someone who has been abandoned might find it difficult to trust themselves, especially when making decisions about their own needs and wants. Seeking help from professionals such as in-person therapists or virtual therapists is often beneficial for anyone coping with abandonment issues as they provide valuable insight and support through the healing process.

How to Start Healing From the Pain of Abandonment

If you have suffered the pain of abandonment, it is important to begin your healing process and learn how to move on. With that being said, here are a few tips to consider:

Tip #1 – Recognize your Own Self-Worth & Learn Acceptance

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that the abandonment of another person does not reflect your own worth. Acceptance is key and this includes accepting that you have been let down by someone else and learning to forgive them (if you so choose). Doing so can help to release any negative energy or feelings associated with the experience. 

Tip #2 – Rebuild Your Support System

The pain of abandonment can often be mitigated by taking the time to rebuild your support system. This could mean reaching out to family and friends, joining a support group, or seeking professional help if needed. It’s also important to remember that you are not alone in this process, so don’t be afraid to rely on others for emotional support.

Tip #3 – Practice Positive Self-Care Habits

It’s essential to practice positive self-care habits such as eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough rest in order to foster self-love and resilience. Focusing on yourself will help you stay grounded and provide a sense of stability as you progress through the healing process.

Tip #4 – Make Peace With The Situation

Regardless of the situation it’s always important to make peace with the experience, even if that means letting go of any expectations or resentment. Doing so will help you move forward and resist any feelings of bitterness or despair.  If you are incapable of letting go by yourself, consider seeking professional help.

Tip #5 –  Turn Pain into Opportunity

Although it can be extremely difficult to come to terms with the pain of abandonment, it is possible to make the most of your situation. Try and focus on building new relationships, discovering who you are without them, or exploring opportunities that may have been missed out on during the time of abandonment.

Tip #6 – Express Your Feelings of Abandonment in a Healthy and Constructive Way

It can be easy to take the pain of abandonment out on yourself or those around you. It is important that you express your feelings in a healthy and constructive way. This could mean writing in a journal, meditating, creating art, or talking with someone who understands what you are going through.

Conclusion – What is Abandonment and How Do I Heal?

In conclusion,  abandonment is the act of being left behind or discarded by someone, usually a close family member or romantic partner. It often leads to feelings of betrayal, guilt, and self-blame. In order to start healing from the pain of abandonment it’s important to recognize your own worth, rebuild your support system, practice positive self-care habits, make peace with the situation, turn pain into opportunity, and express your feelings in a healthy and constructive way. With that being said, it is possible to move on from the hurt of abandonment and find hope for the future.

All in all, by understanding what abandonment is and taking steps to heal, you can begin to create a life where you feel whole and complete.  With patience and self-love, you can become empowered to take back your life and find joy in the present moment.

Now that you have read this article, it is time to put these tips into practice and start taking steps towards healing from the pain of abandonment. You deserve a life filled with joy and happiness, and you can have it if you commit to the process.  With time and effort, you will be able to move forward with confidence and create a life that is filled with love, connection, and peace. 

If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our team at Cedarway Therapy today! We would be more than happy to assist you!

Good luck!

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