When people think of abuse, it tends to be something physical that leaves visible marks.
Yet, emotional abuse leaves invisible wounds that are just as damaging.
While abuse can happen to anyone, no one deserves to be abused for any reason.
Verywell / Shideh Ghandeharizadeh
Verywell / Shideh Ghandeharizadeh
What Is Emotional Abuse?
While they are nonphysical, they are just as serious.
Emotional abuse can be damaging and traumatizing to the person experiencing the abuse.
Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs
How common is emotional abuse?
Signs of Emotional Abuse
Some signs of emotional abuse are obvious, like yelling or name-calling.
This wearing down of confidence and self-worth is how the abuser controls and holds power in the relationship.
Critics have argued that the theory is flawed, outdated, and harmful to people who experience abuse.
The outer ring of the diagram represents physical and sexual violence.
Emotional abuse is included inside this wheel.
You may feel unsure of yourself or start second-guessing yourself constantly.
You may become emotionally and psychologically dependent on your abuser.
Can emotional abuse turn into physical abuse?
Leaving an Abusive Relationship
Leaving an emotionally abusive relationship isn’t easy.
There are plenty of obstacles that may prevent a person from leaving an abusive relationship.
If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
Having a Safety Plan
It’s important to have a safety plan when leaving an abusive relationship.
This helps prepare you for high-stress situations to protect yourself or others.
Practicing self-care and self-compassion will also be an important tool in healing from an abusive relationship.
you could also try meditating,journaling, or other creative outlets like art or music.
As part of your self-care, it will also be important to reconnect with your friends and family.
Can emotional abuse cause PTSD?
Abusive relationships are related to PTSD symptoms.
Summary
Emotional abuse can take many forms and is often more subtle than other types of abuse.
American Psychological Association.Emotional abuse.
National Domestic Violence Hotline.Domestic Violence Statistics.
National Domestic Violence Hotline.What is emotional abuse.
National Domestic Violence Hotline.Escalation.
Center for Relationship Abuse Awareness.Barriers to Leaving an Abusive Relationship.
National Domestic Violence Hotline.50 Obstacles to Leaving.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline.Breaking Free from PTSD.
American Psychological Association.Unseen wounds.
American Psychological Association.Facts about women and trauma.
