Does anyone else struggle with trusting new friends after what you've been through?

Does anyone else find it hard to trust new friends after everything we've been through? Many of us know how challenging it can be to open up after experiencing bullying. It leaves marks that aren't always visible, and when we try to connect with others, those old fears can creep back in. One thing that really helped me was taking small steps when meeting new people. Instead of diving into deep conversations right away, I started with light topics. This eased the pressure and allowed me to gauge their reactions. When I met someone who had also faced bullying, we bonded over shared experiences, and it felt safe to let my guard down a little. Having even one person who truly understands what we’ve endured can make such a difference. Another approach some of us try is setting clear boundaries. After being hurt in the past, it’s okay to express what you need from a friendship. I remember telling a new friend that I sometimes need time to process things before I can share openly. This honesty helped build a foundation of trust, and we both felt more comfortable as we got to know each other. It's also important to recognize that not everyone will understand our experiences, and that’s okay. Some conversations might not go as we hope, and that can sting. But remembering that it’s a journey helps. We can take our time to find those who truly resonate with us. I found that connecting with people who have similar backgrounds or stories made it easier to trust again. So, what about you? Anyone else dealing with this struggle? Sometimes just talking to someone who gets it helps us take that next step toward building trust. Would love to hear your experiences!