Change is a constant background of our life. We read news about the divorce of stars who caught the faithful with their mistresses. We watch series where infidelity is the cornerstone of the plot, from Big Little Lies to Unscrupulous. But just because deception is being normalized in the media doesn't mean it should be taken lightly. Cheating has long-term consequences for self-esteem, ability to trust, and feelings of security.

Marriage and family therapist Cindy Grajkowski says the most common consequence of betrayal is a traumatic reaction. “People seem to be going through a car accident. They don't feel safe anymore, they can't sleep, and they overreact to everything,” Grajkowski says.

Of course, the behavior of each person faced with treason is individual. But it is important to understand the impact that a partner’s infidelity has on us and what will help us get through what happened, regardless of whether you want to stay together or intend to break the union.

Dr. Carla Marie Manley, a clinical psychologist who specializes in trauma and relationship problems, also believes that cheating should not be taken lightly. "It's cruel and undermines the foundation of marriage - trust," she says. You should not believe that this is “just sеx” - a very important connection has been broken that allows people to stay with each other.

This does not mean that the couple is doomed to parting. But very often people ask themselves only one question: “Stay or leave?” But there is another, much more important one: “How can I be healed after what happened?” Several experts have shared what needs to be done before moving forward, whether together or alone...

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