In this episode of Ask The Betrayed, Sharon and Rae explore one of the most misunderstood aspects of betrayal trauma recovery: Emotional exhaustion after infidelity and during betrayal recovery; what the betrayed can do about it and how the unfaithful can support them.

After D-Day, many betrayed partners feel an instinctive pull to withdraw, create boundaries, or even consider therapeutic separation. This is not about punishment of the unfaithful. It's not about giving up. And it's not about "never getting over it."

It's about trauma recovery.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why the need for space is a natural trauma response
• The nervous system's need for distance after betrayal
• Sharon's "Wiggly Man" metaphor and validation-seeking dynamics
• How unfaithful partners can honor space without resentment
• Creating space vs. impulsive distancing and withdrawal
• Why being able to take space is a sign of healing — not rejection of your partner

If you are the betrayed partner and feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or pulled between your needs and your partner's emotions — this conversation is for you.

If you are the unfaithful partner and feel anxious when your spouse asks for distance — this episode will help you understand why honoring that request is essential for rebuilding trust and helping them heal.

Recovery from betrayal trauma is not linear. The need for space ebbs and flows. And learning to navigate that well can transform your healing process.

If this episode resonated, please like, subscribe, and share — it helps others find support and hope after betrayal.

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📬 If you have questions you'd like us to answer in an episode, or would like to inquire about coaching with Rae or therapy help, including intensives, with Sharon and James, please reach out to us at: AskTheBetrayed@gmail.com

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🔗 Need help healing? Find James & Sharon at the CORE Relationship Recovery website: www.HopeForUs.com (Email: Info@HopeForUs.com ) or find Rae at www.HealingTalksBack.com (Email: Rae@HealingTalksBack.com )

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