What is Verbal Abuse?

Verbal abuse is the use of words to control, manipulate, or treat someone in a degrading or humiliating way. It also includes threats that are meant to put someone else in fear and are spoken as a verbal attack. Here we will explore the signs and effects of verbal abuse, as well as how you can cope with it and seek help if necessary.

What are the signs of verbal abuse?

— Insults and humiliation. 

— Breach of trust and boundaries. 

— Lack of respect. Abusers show a lack of respect for their partner by interrupting them, dismissing their feelings and not acknowledging their essence. 

— Use of sarcasm and threats. Abusers may often use sarcasm, especially in ways that make them feel threatened. 

— Excessive jealousy and controlling behavior. Abusers may try to control their partner’s social life.

The effects of verbal abuse

Here are some consequences of verbal abuse that you should be aware of and ready to say goodbye to: 

— Low self-esteem. People who are frequently verbally abused often develop low self-esteem because they feel they are not worthy of being treated well.

 — Loss of trust in relationships. If you have been in a relationship where you have been verbally abused, you may feel unable to enter a new relationship because you lack the ability to trust your partner. 

— Anxiety and depression. Regular exposure to verbal abuse can lead to anxiety and depression because you feel trapped and can’t get out.

 — Feelings of unworthiness and loneliness. If you have been verbally abused, you may feel that you are unworthy of love and that no one wants to be with you.

Ways to cope with verbal abuse

— Stay Positive. One of the most important things you can do.

— Keep a journal. This can be a great way to process your feelings and deal with them. 

— Reach out to a friend. Let them know what’s going on and why you need help. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. 

— Join a support group. If there isn’t someone you can talk to, or you don’t feel comfortable talking to a friend, you can join a support group for people experiencing verbal abuse.

Taking action to end verbal abuse

Here are some steps you can take to put an end to verbal abuse in your relationship: 

— Remember that you deserve to be treated well and that you deserve to be with someone who respects you. No one deserves to be insulted, and you are not responsible for the other person’s bad behavior. 

— Set healthy boundaries – these are rules that will show your partner that you are serious and ready to end the abuse. 

— Seek help-you don’t have to do it alone. You can find support from friends, family members and even online communities. You can also see a therapist to help you deal with the emotional fallout from the verbal abuse.

Verbal abuse is a form of abuse that often goes unnoticed because it leaves no physical scars. The first step to healing from verbal abuse is acknowledging that you are being abused and making the decision to stop it. 

This article is written by a therapist from the Sensera app. Sensera is the #1 mental health app for women. Deal with mental issues in 10 minutes a day. Improve your mood and relationships. Download now to get happy!