5 Signs of Emotional Abuse
How to Handle It
There are many types of abuse that one may experience in a relationship, including physical, sexual, and verbal abuse. While these are often understood to be serious red flags in a relationship, there is another form of abuse that is more subtle but just as damaging: emotional abuse. It’s not easy to spot it. Often those being abused may not even realize it’s happening because the abuser usually does so subtly and gradually.
What is emotional abuse?
Emotional abuse is a type of abuse that is often overlooked. It is characterized by any behavior that causes someone to feel shame or self-loathing. It is often used as a tool to control and manipulate another person by putting them down and making them feel worthless. Examples of emotional abuse include name-calling, shaming, denying the other person’s feelings, gaslighting, controlling someone’s actions and thoughts, excessive criticism, and using guilt to manipulate someone.
If you are experiencing emotional abuse, it may be challenging to recognize. That’s because it’s often done slowly and subtly. Emotional abuse can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or sexual orientation. There is no “type” of person who is more likely to become a victim of this form of abuse. It can happen in any type of relationship, including romantic partnerships, friendships, family relationships, and even professional relationships.
5 Signs you are being emotionally abused
- Feeling like you’re not respected or appreciated.
- Noticing you’re not able to express your thoughts or feelings without being criticized or shut down.
- Constantly walking on eggshells and hyper-aware of how you act and speak.
- Feeling like you’re being “walked all over” in the relationship and your needs don’t seem to matter.
- You can’t trust your partner.
Responding to Emotional Abuse
If you are in a relationship and experiencing emotional abuse, it’s important to know that you are not at fault. No one deserves to be abused. If you think that you are in a relationship where you are being emotionally abused, it’s important to speak up. Let your partner know that this behavior is not acceptable and that you would like it to stop. If you are having a difficult time confronting your partner, you can speak with a therapist or other trusted individual about how to best handle the situation. You can also use the Sensera app to find tips that can help you address the abuse.
4 Tips to Safeguard Against Emotional Abuse
1. Know that you deserve better than emotional abuse. It’s important to remind yourself that you deserve love and respect throughout your relationship.
2. Pay attention to your partner’s behavior. If they exhibit any of the signs of emotional abuse listed above, let them know that you are not comfortable with the way they are treating you.
3. Seek help if you need it. Letting someone know that you are being abused is one of the hardest things to do. If you feel like you are in a situation where you are being emotionally abused, make sure to reach out for help.
4. If you feel like your situation is more serious and you are in danger, call 911 or contact your local Domestic Violence Hotline.
Emotional abuse is a serious type of abuse that can erode your self-esteem and make you feel like you don’t deserve better. If you are in an unhealthy relationship that involves emotional abuse, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. Let your partner know that you are not comfortable with the way things are going and that you want the abuse to stop. If you need help, reach out to your friends or a therapist for support. Remember, you deserve to be treated with love and respect.
This article is written by a therapist from the Sensera app. Sensera is the #1 mental health app for women. Deal with mental issues in 10 minutes a day. Improve your mood and relationships. Download now to get happy!
