I'm often asked "How long does estrangement last?"
The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The length of family estrangement can vary widely from person to person, depending on a myriad of factors. But one thing's for sure: it's all about the level of pain and one's ability to process the trauma.
Let me break it down:
The level of pain experienced during family estrangement can be a major factor in determining its duration. For some, the pain may be so overwhelming that they choose to cut ties indefinitely, unable to see a path toward reconciliation. For others, the pain may be more manageable, allowing for eventual healing and forgiveness.
How we process trauma plays a significant role in how long family estrangement lasts. Some individuals may have healthy coping mechanisms in place, allowing them to work through their pain and eventually rebuild relationships. Others may struggle to process their trauma, leading to prolonged estrangement and unresolved emotional wounds.
The willingness to rebuild relationships is key in determining the length of family estrangement. If both parties are committed to healing and reconciliation, estrangement may be relatively short-lived. However, if one or both parties are unwilling or unable to work through their differences, estrangement may drag on indefinitely.
So, what's the average length of family estrangement? It's hard to say. For some, it may last only a few months or years before reconciliation occurs. For others, it may stretch on for decades, with no resolution in sight. It all depends on the unique circumstances of each situation and the people involved.
But here's the thing: regardless of how long family estrangement lasts, what's most important is finding a path toward healing. Whether that means seeking therapy, setting boundaries, or simply giving yourself time to heal, know that there's no right or wrong timeline for healing from family estrangement.
No matter how long estrangement lasts, what's most important is finding a way to heal and move forward with your life. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and there are people like myself included who understand and can support you every step of the way.
If this resonates with you then drop me a message and we can talk about your experiences.
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