Does anyone else struggle with trust issues in new friendships or romantic relationships?

Does anyone else struggle with trust issues in new friendships or romantic relationships? Many of us know how hard it can be to open up when our past experiences make us feel like we have to keep our guard up. Growing up in foster care often means we’ve faced a lot of instability and loss, which can make trusting others feel downright scary. One thing that helped me was taking small steps toward building trust. Instead of diving in headfirst, I started sharing little parts of my story slowly. This way, I could gauge the other person’s reactions and see if they were someone I felt safe with. It’s amazing how even just one or two honest conversations can reveal if someone is truly willing to understand and support you. Another approach that’s worked for me is finding others who share similar experiences. Connecting with someone who understands the complexities of being a foster care survivor has made a world of difference. We started chatting regularly about our struggles with trust, and it felt so validating to know I wasn’t alone in this. Having that one person who gets it can really lighten the load. I also try to remind myself that not everyone is going to hurt me. It’s a tough mindset to shift, especially when past relationships have been so turbulent. I focus on the present and the good moments, even if they’re small. Sometimes just sharing a laugh or a silly story helps me remember that friendships can be joyful too. So, anyone else dealing with this? How do you manage trust in new friendships or relationships? Sometimes just talking to one person who understands makes all the difference — I’d love to hear your experiences!