Betrayal trauma is a type of trauma that occurs when a trusted institution, loved one, or intimate partner violates someones trust. It is defined as a trauma perpetrated by someone with whom the victim is close to and reliant upon for support and survival. Betrayal trauma can occur alongside things like gaslighting and lead to anxiety and depression. The concept of betrayal trauma was originally introduced by Jennifer Freyd in 1994. Betrayal trauma theory suggests that harm within attachment relationships, like relationships between a parent and child or between romantic partners, can cause lasting trauma. People often respond to betrayal by pulling away from the person who betrayed them, but when someone depends on another person to meet certain needs, this response might not be feasible. Betrayal trauma can have long-term damaging effects on psychological and physical health, and the specific effects can vary. Some common signs of betrayal trauma include shame, guilt, self-blame, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty regulating emotions. Therapy and mindfulness can help individuals heal and move forward to make healthier relationships.