Understanding the Unseen Wounds: The Signs of Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse leaves invisible scars. It is a type of abuse that is often overlooked and underestimated. Many women suffer from emotional abuse but do not know they are experiencing it. In this blog post, I’ll explain what emotional abuse looks like, identify the signs of emotional abuse, and provide tips on how to cope and heal from emotional abuse. If you are a woman who feels misunderstood, lonely, degraded, or unworthy, these are a few signs. Or, maybe you’re like me and don’t know that you are being emotionally abused. I just knew I had to leave because I could no longer live the way things were. It was depressing to realize I couldn’t make the relationship better. It just seemed like everything I did made it worse. I will admit I used to be a people-pleaser.

What is Emotional Abuse?

Emotional abuse is a type of abuse that involves manipulation, intimidation, and control. It is characterized by the use of words, actions, control, or silence to degrade, humiliate, or frighten someone. Emotional abuse is not always easy to identify, but here are a few signs that you may be experiencing emotional abuse. First, if your partner always criticizes you, calls you names, or belittles you, it could be a sign of emotional abuse. If you don’t like it, and you feel safe, you could say something like, “I don’t like it when you criticize me”. Secondly, if your partner controls your every move, isolates you from your family and friends, or restricts your finances, it could be a sign of emotional abuse. Third, if your partner threatens you, uses guilt to control you, or humiliates you in front of others, it could be a sign of emotional abuse.

How can I help myself?

Emotional abuse can take a toll on your mental health and overall well-being. If you are experiencing emotional abuse, it is important to cope with it in a healthy, mindful and safe way. First, you want to seek support from people you trust such as friends, family, a therapist or support group. There is a National Domestic Violence hotline (US) you can contact and their number is 1-800-799-7233 or your local domestic violence organization for support and next steps. Always remember, if you don’t feel safe call 911 (in the US). You are welcome to join my private Facebook group, Single Moms & Money: Thriving After Emotional abuse. Second, set boundaries with your partner and let them know that the way they are treating you is not ok. Third, practice daily self-care as it’s important to calm your mind, body and emotions. Some of my favorite relaxation techniques is to take an Epsom bath, do Yoga with Adrienne, take a walk with my dog, diffuse Peace & Calming or put on the Wavwatch to the “Calm” setting. It’s important to boost your self-worth and self-confidence. I did this by getting out of my comfort zone. Fourth, I want you to know it is possible to heal from emotional abuse. I did and you can too. If you want an all inclusive way to start the healing process emotionally, physically and mentally, I highly recommend the 11 Day Jumpstart. Lastly, if your partner is not willing to change or seek help for their abusive behavior, you have to think about what is in your best interest for your future. Do you want to live the life you so desire in a joyful, peaceful and fulfilling way?

What are the concerns?

One of the scariest things about emotional abuse is that it can lead to physical abuse. If your partner has a history of physical aggression, you should take emotional abuse more seriously. Emotional abuse can be a predictor of domestic violence, and it is important to recognize the signs and protect yourself. Ways to protect yourself include seeking help from the authorities, finding a safe place to stay, and never being alone with your partner in a situation where you feel threatened or unsafe. Can I just say every woman thinks, “my situation isn’t/wasn’t that bad.” They always think someone else has it worse. Another thought that is common and I had too was “I am not beaten and no one can see my scars.”

I support you and I care!

It is never too late to seek help if you are experiencing emotional abuse. You deserve to be treated with respect, love, and in an equal partnership like a team. Healing from emotional abuse may take time, but with the right support and self-care, you can overcome the unseen wounds and thrive. Remember, you are not alone and there is always hope.

One Last thing…

Emotional abuse is a form of abuse that is often overlooked but can leave deep emotional wounds. Identifying the signs of emotional abuse is the first step in coping with it. Seek support, set boundaries, practice self-care, and protect yourself if you are experiencing emotional abuse. Remember, you are not alone and there is always hope. Together, we can raise awarene