5 Steps to Help Repair Trust in any Relationship

Trust is crucial for a healthy relationship. Without it, things can get messy very quickly. Relationships are meant to feel safe and secure, and when trust is broken — whether it’s the result of unfaithfulness, dishonesty, or unusual behaviour — it’s essential to get to the bottom it sooner rather than later. Repairing the damage may not be easy, but it is possible with the right steps and with the professional guidance and support of a therapist.

Here are five helpful steps you can take to help repair trust in any relationship.

Offer a Sincere Apology

First things — first giving a sincere and thorough apology is the first step to take. Your partner needs to hear your remorse, your understanding of the events, and how you hurt them. During this time, you should also express your commitment to repair what you’ve broken. Be prepared to apologize multiple times as your partner processes the emotional impact of everything that’s going on.

Be Open to Listening

Your partner should also feel (and actually be) heard and fully understood. Make it clear that you are open and willing to listen to whatever they have to say. It’s important to make them feel safe about expressing what they are feeling in order to begin repairing the damage caused.

Ask Your Partner What They Need to Be Changed

It can be helpful to ask specifically what they would like you to change in regards to your behaviour. Maybe it’s checking in more frequently during the day, sharing passwords, cutting off an existing relationship, or offering more love and affection. Learning how to improve and repair trust in any relationship starts with including each other in the process of changing. And focusing on adding in a few new, beneficial behaviours can be very beneficial for rebuilding that trust.

Acknowledge the Need for Honesty

Being honest and transparent about your activities is fundamental for establishing a healthy foundation for any relationship. Any white lies or omissions of the truth are what gradually destroy trust. So get rid of any dishonesty by being fully open and honest about everything moving forward.

Be Willing to Answer Their Questions

Your partner may ask you some questions that are tough to hear and answer. But holding back on your answers can just exacerbate your partner’s insecurities, doubts, and fears. Help alleviate their worries by being willing and open to answering all of their questions.

If there’s a noticeable disconnect, use these steps to help repair trust in any relationship, or talk to us at Ottawa Counselling. Our team can provide the support and guidance that you need in tough times.