a guide to healing from emotional abuse ❤️🩹
this is a huuuuge topic to cover in just one post, so i won’t really be able to dive into *all* of it. but if emotional abuse is something you’ve dealt with in the past (or are dealing with now) then hopefully this can be a starting place to help you see the framework of what healing looks like
but first, what is emotional abuse?
it’s type of abuse that involves emotional mistreatment. examples might be ⤵️
▪️ humiliation or constant criticism
▪️ threatening, shouting, name calling
▪️ blaming and scapegoating
▪️ being forced to perform degrading acts
▪️ frequently ignoring or stonewalling
▪️ manipulation and gaslighting
▪️ intentionally isolating
▪️ withholding affection
emotional abuse can come from parents, partners, or even friends.
in my opinion, it’s one of the hardest forms of abuse to heal from - because it’s often subtle and not immediately apparent, making it difficult to recognize and understand.
that means victims tend to stay in abusive situations longer, develop more complex feelings surrounding the abuse and their self esteem, and are ultimately less likely to attribute symptoms of the abuse to their actual cause.
a lot of times, survivors of emotional abuse may not realize they’re being abused, or minimize the severity of the abuse.
if you want to understand the cycle of abuse better, comment a 🔁 emoji and i’ll tag you in the post i’m doing about that <3
and my dm’s are always open if you want to talk 🤍
#lemon8partner #safespace #traumahealing #emotionalhealing #emotionalabuse #emotionalabusesurvivor #traumahealingjourney #traumarecovery #traumasurvivor #abuserecovery
Healing from emotional abuse is a deeply personal journey that requires time and patience. It's vital to first acknowledge the abuse—this is often the most challenging step. Awareness is key, as many survivors might downplay their experiences. Building a support network can significantly aid in recovery; consider reaching out to therapists, support groups, or trusted friends who comprehend your struggles. Cultivating coping skills should not be overlooked. Techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, and mindfulness can help manage the overwhelming emotions stemming from such trauma. Implementing self-care practices into your routine is also essential; prioritize sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise to support your mental and physical health. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial in the healing process. Learning to say no to situations or individuals that can trigger past trauma empowers you to reclaim control over your life. Remember, forgiveness can be part of the healing, but it is equally important to not forget the lessons learned from the experience. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, as this reinforces positivity and encourages further growth. Lastly, stay present; while reflecting on past experiences is part of the healing, grounding yourself in the now is necessary for emotional recovery.
Does this apply if you’ve been physically and mentally abused at the same time (asking for a friend)