‘He had an affair with another girl’: Kunickaa Sadanand opens up about her secret relationship with a married man; expert explains why honesty can be healing

She went on to share how the relationship ended, saying, “I was not married at that time, we were living in, but then he had an affair with another girl. I left him after he accepted cheating on me.” 

While live-in relationships are becoming more common, they can still carry a social stigma, especially if one partner has been previously married. Navigating such situations often involves not just personal emotions but also societal judgement, family expectations, and questions of self-worth. 

So, how does this secrecy due to societal judgement or complicated circumstances impact mental and emotional well-being?

Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Carrying a secret for years creates a constant emotional burden. People often experience anxiety, guilt, and fear of exposure, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The mind is always in a state of hyper-vigilance, trying to manage appearances.”

Over time, she adds that this secrecy can erode self-esteem and make it difficult to experience the relationship fully, because the joy of intimacy is overshadowed by the pressure of concealment.

Why does opening up about one’s relationship, even after many years, often bring such a sense of relief?

When someone finally voices a truth they have been holding back, Cadabam notes, it feels like releasing a weight they have carried for years. Suppression demands constant mental energy, and breaking the silence removes that pressure. 

“It also allows a person to align their inner reality with their outer world, which restores a sense of authenticity and emotional freedom. Speaking openly can be deeply cathartic because honesty creates space for healing and self-acceptance,” says the expert. 

In situations where a partner admits to infidelity, what are some healthy ways for individuals to process the betrayal?

Cadabam explains that the first step is to allow yourself to acknowledge and process the emotions without judgment. Seeking professional support, whether through therapy or counseling, can help make sense of the betrayal and prevent the pain from turning into long-term resentment. 

“Healthy coping also involves setting clear boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in activities that restore a sense of personal identity. For some, forgiveness becomes part of the healing process, not necessarily to reconcile but to let go of the emotional hold the betrayal has over them. Moving forward is about reclaiming your sense of self and focusing on growth rather than remaining trapped in the hurt,” she concludes. 

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