Over time, this consistent pattern of abusive words and behaviours can affect your self-esteem and mental health. It can occur in romantic relationships as well as between friends, family members, and colleagues. It can happen at any stage in a person’s life and between people of any gender.

Recognising the signs of emotional abuse can be trickier than other more overt types of abuse, which can lead to some people overlooking, ignoring, or dismissing the signs. Emotional abuse can be very damaging to your mental health and if not dealt with, can have far-reaching effects. Some people may be hesitant about using the phrase ’emotional abuse’ when describing how they are being treated. However, any behaviour that makes you feel controlled, small, unable to talk or seek help, is abusive.

If someone is stopping you from expressing yourself, is belittling your opinions, or makes you doubt events or experiences you know to be true (gaslighting), this is abusive behaviour. If you find yourself changing how you act to better accommodate their behaviour, or find yourself feeling scared or anxious about their reactions, this is abusive behaviour.

Types of emotional abuse
There are many different types of abuse. Emotional abuse may occur on its own, or you may also experience other forms such as physical, sexual, or financial abuse. It can include: intimidation or threats; criticism; undermining; making you feel guilty; shaming; name-calling; isolation; withholding affection, sex, or money; unrealistic expectations; invalidating.

I will work with you in a safe space to look at how your boundaries have been blurred over time, the moments you recognise the manipulation you suffered and the impact it has had on you. The healing process will focus on understanding that none of this was your fault and encouraged and empowered, I will help you move forward with a sense of hopefulness.