If you have been in an emotionally abusive relationship, whether you are currently in one or you have managed to get out of that relationship, you may not know what to think or do about the situation. Relationships that are emotionally abusive are tricky to deal with in that there is a common misconception that the only type of abuse that counts is physical. However, emotional abuse needs to be taken seriously as well. Get to know some of the facts you should keep in mind when you have been in or are in an emotionally abusive relationship. Then, you can be sure you take steps to take care of yourself going forward.
Emotional Abuse Can Be Subtle
Emotional abuse is not always direct and aggressive. It doesn't mean your partner is screaming insults at you all the time (though they may do this as well). Instead, emotional abuse can be a subtle attempt to undermine a person's confidence and sense of self.
A person who is emotionally abusive may make "jokes" that are demeaning or insulting. They may also try to manipulate their partner in various ways. Giving the silent treatment when they are dissatisfied with their partner is one example. They could also act dismissive of accomplishments and positive qualities of the partner, focusing only on the negatives.
Emotional Abuse Is Extremely Harmful
Most people recognize the horrible effects of physical abuse on the person being abused. However, fewer people realize just what emotional abuse can do to a person. Emotional abuse can, in many ways, be even more damaging (in the long-term) than physical abuse.
When a person is emotionally abused, their entire sense of self is disrupted. Their self-image and self-confidence are undermined, and they become completely dependent upon their abuser in many ways. They desperately seek out positive affirmations and validation from their partner, most often to no avail.
If a person is able to get out of an emotionally abusive situation, it can take many years to recover from the damage done in that relationship. A person needs to relearn how to have confidence in themselves. They also need to figure out who they truly are and how to stand on their own two feet again.
Therapy Can Help
What you may not realize about emotional abuse is that being emotionally abused is a form of trauma. Trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder are not exclusive to soldiers returning from war. People in any kind of abusive relationship have also experienced trauma and might suffer from PTSD.
To help address the issues that come along with experiencing significant trauma, you may want to consider going to therapy with a mental health counselor. In therapy, you will be able to address several aspects of the trauma you have experienced. You can confront the traumatic situation directly by talking through your experiences or trying trauma therapy techniques like EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). You can also work with your therapist to improve your sense of self, learn how to build confidence, and otherwise improve yourself in the present.
Emotional abuse is a serious form of abuse and trauma. It is important that you realize that what you have been through is significant and that there is no shame in seeking out help for yourself. Contact a company like The A Treatment Center as soon as possible to begin recovering from your emotionally abusive relationship.
Share13 February 2019
When I initially started the therapy process about 10 years ago, I didn't take the time to scout out the right counselor. Instead, I just went to the first counselor that my doctor recommended, and the experience was less than enjoyable. I realized that I might need to do a little research to find the right counselor for me, so I took the time to carefully evaluate my needs and research different clinics in my area. I was able to find an amazing counselor who really seemed to have it under control, and it was incredibly beneficial to see the difference that it made. This blog is all about finding the right counselor.
