Navigating friendships as a survivor — do you find it hard to trust people?

Many of us know that navigating friendships as a survivor can feel like walking a tightrope. Trust doesn’t come easily when your past is filled with experiences that have taught you to be cautious. You might find yourself questioning others' intentions, even when they seem genuinely kind. It’s a tough position to be in, feeling the pull to connect while also holding back out of fear. One thing that really helped me was slowly opening up to a few people who I felt might understand. I shared my story with a friend I met in a support group, and it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Hearing her experiences made me realize I wasn’t alone and that there are people out there who truly get it. Finding that one person who shares similar experiences can be transformative. It’s nice to have someone in your corner who understands the complexities of trust and vulnerability. Another approach some of us try is to give ourselves permission to take baby steps in friendships. Maybe start with small, casual interactions before diving deeper. You could share a light-hearted moment or a funny memory from childhood. This way, you can gauge the other person’s reactions without feeling overwhelmed. It’s okay to keep some things close to your heart until you feel ready to share more. Trust builds over time, and that’s perfectly okay. We also might benefit from setting boundaries. It can feel empowering to define what we’re comfortable with in friendships. If someone pushes for more than we’re ready to give, it’s okay to say no. This isn’t about shutting people out; it’s about protecting ourselves while we navigate our healing journey. Anyone else dealing with this? It’s such a challenge to find that balance between wanting connection and needing to guard our hearts. Sometimes just one real conversation with someone who understands can change everything. What’s been your experience with trust in friendships?