How do I rebuild trust

I've always been surrounded by the type of family environment that has been emotionally disconnected. None of my family members including myself were taught or knew how to express our feelings; at least in a healthy way. These days, I'm an adult and currently reside with some of the same family members that may have indeed instigated the unhealthy behaviours if not made things worse.

Make a long story short, I don't trust my own family members with anything; my emotions/feelings, my belongings, my life. It's gotten so bad that I've had to put a lock on my bedroom door just to have some privacy and to keep these family members from snooping. My question is, with my trust broken by my own family members how can I rebuild trust and build healthy relaltionships in my own life?

William, my family is like that too. i divorced them. you seem to be stuck with them at the moment and personally, I think that putting a lock on your door is healthy. It means you know inside yourself that you are worthy of protecting yourself, that you trust your instincts. good for you! As far as developing trust outside of your family, no it isn't easy but you can. Growth is always built upon prior successes - in anything - so start small. It's never good to meet someone and automatically place absolute trust in that person. Take your time, listen to your spidey senses and only offer more of yourself as it feels safe to do so. You will make mistakes and get hurt, as we are human, so we make mistakes. Don't get mad at yourself! You will learn, just as you have learned how to be safe under the same roof with people you realize are not trustworthy. You are doing it! You posted here and that's a start. Now you can think about what i've said and judge for yourself if it fits for you. If it sounds like rubbish, let it go and ask yourself what didn't fit. Even that may give you a clue to what fits for you.
I hope this is helpful. If nothing else, know that there is someone who thinks you are moving in the right direction and i support how you are taking care of yourself!

Take it slow. Baby steps. You'll make mistakes, that's okay. Maybe read some self help books on trust and relationships?

The first step is getting out there and trying??????? And like Miri said you figured out what you need to do with your family so you do have an idea what you are doing. Good post Miri!

Wow!! Thank you very much Miri for your support! Just what I need. Sounds like we come from similar situations. That's great advice btw. I'll definitely have to practice some it. Thanks again Miri, you rock!

William

Very, very glad if my words helped. Kepp in touch.