Abandonment is most easily described as a “primal fear” and “universal wound,” and includes an extensive array of symptoms, including unworthiness, insecurity, shame, emotional hunger, feelings of annihilation, self-sabotage, chronic emptiness, and repeated feelings of trauma. These symptoms are just an inkling of the emotions experienced by individuals with a history of abandonment. Some of the behaviors that emerge as a way to deal with these feelings include dependency and co-dependency issues in relationships, setting ourselves up for re-abandonment, and even self-medication through food, drugs, or alcohol.
Dr. Humphrey facilitates Abandonment Recovery Support Groups. Abandonment recovery group therapy is highly beneficial as this form of therapy connects individuals with others who are or who have experienced similar experiences and symptoms.
Learn more about abandonment recovery in this article: “Issues of Abandonment: An Interview with Dr. Denise Humphrey”
Learn more about the symptoms of abandonment: “Do You Suffer from a Fear of Abandonment?” and “Understanding Abandonment.”
