“A child that’s being abused by its parents doesn’t stop loving its parents, it stops loving itself.” - Shahida Arabi
Emotional abuse is often a part of relationship abuse. Here, the abuser could be your spouse or other romantic partner. They could also be a business partner, a parent, or a caretaker. Regardless of who the abuse is, no one deserves abuse. Learning to recognize and take steps to stop emotional abuse is paramount.
Some examples of emotional abuse include:
Humiliation and Criticism. Includes name calling, yelling, sarcasm and put downs.
Control and Shame. Includes threats, lecturing, outbursts, tracking your whereabouts and digital spying.
Economic abuse. Includes withholding money, preventing you from working and demanding your financial support.
Emotional neglect. Includes the silent treatment, withholding affection, turning others against you and indifference.
Support groups are safe spaces structured to allow participants to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies and information about abusive relationships. The discussions often are facilitated by an experienced leader or a medical professional.
The first step to get oneself out of emotional abusive situations is to speak with someone trustworthy who is outside of the situation. Support groups can allow us to make connections and find the support knowing that you are not alone.
In addition, other benefits of participating in support groups includes:
Reducing feelings of loneliness, isolation and stigma
Getting practical advice or information about how to stop abuse
Reducing feelings of distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue from abusive relationships
Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
Learning about health, economic or social resources
Benefits of online support groups can include:
Faster time to get help, skipping appointment wait time
More frequent or flexible participation
A cost effective way to see a licensed mental health professional
A degree of privacy or anonymity comparing to local community support groups
Opportunities for people in areas with no face-to-face support groups
You are not alone. Herd is ready to support you.