Sharmen talks about the many facets of emotional abuse, and more importantly, some simple steps victims of emotional abuse can take to break free from the destructive patterns and begin to heal.
How to Break Free from Emotional Abuse and Heal
Emotional abuse is a devastating pattern of behavior that seeks to control and manipulate others for personal gain, often at the expense of the victim’s well-being. It can be incredibly insidious and challenging to recognize, keeping victims trapped in unhealthy relationships for years before they can break free. In this article, we will explore the common characteristics of emotional abuse and the essential tools to begin the journey of healing and liberation.
Recognizing Emotional Abuse: Understanding the Signs
Emotional abuse often occurs in relationships with narcissistic and oppressive individuals. The abuser maintains control by dismissing the victim’s perceptions, experiences, and emotions. The victim is coerced into conforming to the abuser’s desires and loses their sense of self and authenticity in the process. This form of abuse is usually covert and manipulative, making it difficult for victims to recognize until much damage has been done.
Emotional Abuse as a Comprehensive Assault
Emotional abuse is akin to a comprehensive assault on a person’s identity, worth, and value. The abuser creates an environment where the victim questions their own reality constantly, leading to self-doubt and a loss of self-esteem. The victim is silenced and coerced into obedience, eroding their freedom and autonomy. The effects of emotional abuse can also manifest physically, leading to chronic debilitating ailments due to ongoing stress and emotional neglect.
Breaking Free and Healing: Taking the First Steps
Breaking free from emotional abuse and embarking on a healing journey requires courage and self-awareness. Here are some essential steps to begin the process:
a. Recognize the Denial: Acknowledge the reality of the emotional abuse you have endured. Give yourself permission to think and act outside the confines of the abusive relationships.
b. Rebuild Authenticity: Rediscover your own thoughts, feelings, desires, and aspirations. Journal your suppressed opinions and perspectives to reclaim your authenticity.
c. Quietly Detach: Emotionally detach yourself from the lies and manipulation being imposed on you. Start putting boundaries in your own head to protect your mental well-being.
d. Practice Discernment: Be discerning about the advice and opinions you receive from others, including friends, family, and religious communities. Seek the truth and let God’s voice guide you.
4. Prioritize Your Healing and Well-being
Remember that healing requires a proactive approach to your own well-being. Focus on creating a safe and healthy environment for yourself. Surround yourself with supportive and understanding people who can help you on your healing journey. Seek professional help from a trained coach or therapist experienced in dealing with emotional abuse to guide you through the process.
Conclusion
Breaking free from emotional abuse and healing from its effects is a challenging but essential process. Recognizing the signs of emotional abuse in relationships and taking the necessary steps to prioritize your well-being is crucial for regaining control over your life. Remember that your hope, meaning, and purpose lie in God and in your own authentic self.
By seeking help and nurturing healthy connections, you can find healing and freedom from the chains of emotional abuse. Always remember that you deserve to be loved, respected, and treated with kindness and courtesy, and that you have the power to rebuild your life on your terms.
To learn how we can help, reach out to us at (206) 219-0145 or info@marriagerecoverycenter.com to speak with a Client Care Specialist
Also read: Hurting People Hurt People
About Dr. Hawkins:
The internet is inundated with hyperbole and misinformation about narcissism, leaving many people confused and hopeless. Get the facts on narcissism and emotional abuse from someone who has been researching, writing about and treating narcissism and emotional abuse for over a decade.
Dr. Hawkins is a best-selling author and clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience helping people break unhealthy patterns and build healthier relationships.
He is the founder and director of the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute which offers education, training and counseling for people who want to break free of, and heal from, emotional abuse. Whether the perpetrator of the abuse is your spouse, partner, parent, boss, friend or family member, we offer practical advice for anyone trapped in a toxic, destructive relationship.
In addition to narcissism & emotional abuse, you’ll learn about the lesser known forms of abuse, including covert abuse, reactive abuse, spiritual abuse, secondary abuse, relationship trauma and much more.
