Emotional abuse is not as easy to spot as physical abuse, but frequently its effects can be just as traumatic. Emotional abuse can involve a wide range of tactics, including gaslighting, shaming and manipulation. All these are intended to leave the victim feeling confused, powerless and hopeless.

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Typically people suffering from long-term or short-term emotional abuse, and depending on the length of time, there can be varying mental health effects.

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Long-term emotional abuse happens over many years. Examples are a child growing up in a home with an alcoholic parent or a sibling with anger issues. Someone may find themselves in a marriage with a narcissistic partner.

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Short-term emotional abuse can result from a nasty exchange with a stranger or micro-interactions with colleagues or neighbours.

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The following are some short-term and long-term effects of emotional abuse:

Short-Term Effects

• Isolation or a sense of deep loneliness 
• Self-doubt
• Shame
• Confusion
• Low self-esteem
• Anxiety connected with social interactions
• Feelings of powerlessness

Long-term Effects

• Neuroticism, or the tendency toward a depressed mood or negative emotions like anger
• Chronic stress
• Physical health issues like muscle tension and shortness of breath
• Attachment issues
• Apathy
• Eating disorders
• PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) or CPTSD (chronic post-traumatic stress disorder)

You Can Heal from Emotional Abuse

With time, patience and plenty of self-compassion, it is possible to heal from the trauma of emotional abuse. Working with a mental health professional trained specifically to help people who have been victims of emotional abuse is a great starting point.

If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me. I am a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist. She hopes her blog can bring awareness to mental illness and help individuals seeking mental health care and the support needed.

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