It may seem as though your world has begun to crumble when there has been broken trust in relationship. So why is trust so important in a relationship and what can you do to regain that trust?

*Know what it means to trust. Healthy relationships rely on important elements such as trust to keep the bond between two people strong and long-lasting. Merriam-Webster defines trust as: "assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something". Without trust in a relationship, the partnership is built on an unstable foundation which may lead to future problems.

*Acknowledge what led to trust being broken, recognize your feelings and discuss with your partner how his actions/beliefs played a role. Discuss the event(s), as they happen, and how you feel as though your trust has been broken. Allow your partner to respond. Communication is important at this step because whenever trust has been broken in a relationship, problems can be more easily resolved simply by communicating your feelings about the situation and vice versa. Its important, however, to maintain composure and strength given that it may be more difficult opening up to someone who as betrayed your trust.

*Determine if and how trust can be rebuilt to develop a healthier and more positive relationship. In order to have fulfilling, deeper, and meaningful relationships we must learn to trust our significant others. The expression and feeling of trust should be mutual and not one-sided (which is where difficulties in a relationship can occur). After talking with your partner as discussed in the step above, it is now time to figure out how he will work to regain your trust, if you are ready to let your guard down some and begin trusting him. This process may take time and communication is very important.

"We're never so vulnerable than when we trust someone - but paradoxically, if we cannot trust, neither can we find love or joy"  ~ Walter Anderson