Emotional (Psychological) Abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse happens when someone repeatedly hurts, controls, or manipulates you through words, behavior, or emotional pressure. This can happen within families, relationships, or other close environments, often by someone you depend on or trust.
It can look like:
- Constant criticism, humiliation, or being made to feel small
- Threats, intimidation, or being made afraid
- Gaslighting: making you doubt your own memories, feelings, or reality
- Manipulation, emotional blackmail, or misuse of trust
- Controlling who you see, what you do, or how you behave
Emotional (psychological) abuse is never your fault.
How it can affect you
How it can make you feel:
- Sad, anxious, angry, or emotionally numb
- Ashamed or guilty, often without knowing why
- Constantly tense or alert
- Confused about your own emotions
How it can affect your thoughts:
- “I’m too sensitive.”
- “It’s probably my fault.”
- “If I try harder, it will stop.”
- Doubting your own perception or memories
How it can affect your behavior:
- Withdrawing or isolating yourself
- People-pleasing or extreme adaptation
- Avoiding conflict at all costs
- Rebellion, anger, or risky behavior
Possible long-term effects
- Low self-esteem and chronic self-doubt
- Difficulty setting boundaries
- Hypervigilance (always being on alert)
- Problems with trust and relationships
- Stress-related physical complaints (headaches, stomach pain, fatigue)