Are You Being Emotionally Abused?

Are you being emotionally abused?- Each month in the news we hear about at least one case of domestic abuse. However, you may be surprised to discover that emotional, or mental abuse is just as prevalent within relationships. In fact, most of us will know of someone who has been the victim of emotional abuse. The good news is that no one needs to suffer this abuse. From the end of this year, emotional abuse will be recognised as a criminal offence. Learn about the signs of emotional/mental abuse and whether you might be in an emotionally abusive relationship.

1.He /She Belittles You

Man pointing at woman — *Does He Do This? (Image: wise geek.com)*

Does he/she put you down in private or public? If your ‘significant other’ makes you feel as though you are not good enough on a regular occasion, this should be considered to be emotional abuse.

2.He or She Stops You From Seeing Your Friends/Family

Man and woman on pier — *Alone Again (Image: themominmend.com)*

Is going out without your partner firmly attached to your hip a practical impossibility? This situation often begins by your partner saying things like, ‘Can’t we just spend the night in, alone?’ Initially, this doesn’t pose a big problem, but before you know it, you may well find yourself completely cut off from your friends and family.

3.He Or She Checks Up On You- Does your phone ring 20 times a day when you are apart? Do you find your partner just happens to call you or the place you said you would be for ridiculously trivial reasons? If your guy/girl constantly checks up on you, it will gradually wear you down, both mentally and physically. Yes, you guessed it – this is a form of emotional abuse and under no circumstances should this bad behaviour be tolerated!

4.Questions- If you return home from work to be greeted with a torrent of accusatory questions on a regular basis, consider yourself emotionally abused.

5.Takes Control (And Your Freedom)- People who are emotionally abusive are usually great manipulators. Staying at home and looking after the children whilst your guy goes out to work, and accepting his control over the finances is one example of possible manipulation and mental abuse. If the main breadwinner is that way inclined, he might use money as a form of control.

6.Change In Your Behaviour- Have you become withdrawn, lost self-confidence or are feeling anxious? If the answer is yes, and you have noticed your behaviour or personality change, you could well be on the receiving end of emotional