Mental abuse is a very real and present form of abuse in our society, and since it is a type of abuse that does not leave physical evidence it can be hard to uncover. Mental abuse happens among adults, children and adolescent populations. Many times, it takes someone outside of the relationship to see the abuse and get help because the victim has developed such intense feelings of hopelessness that they are no longer able to help themselves.
Basics
When you or someone you know experiences mental abuse, their abuser is constantly tearing down feelings of self-worth and independence. According to HelpGuide.org, in mentally abusive relationships you have been broken down to the point that you feel you can no longer get out of the relationship and you cannot function alone. Mental abuse can come in the form of name calling, threats of violence to you or others, withholding of funds and placing restrictions on your life, reports HelpGuide.org.
Signs and Symptoms
According to ChildWelfare.gov, there are several signs of possible mental abuse. These include extremes in behavior, going from aggressive to passive, delayed emotional of physical development in children, children who act inappropriately as an adult by taking on parenting behaviors, or children who engage in infant-like displays of behavior, and attempts at suicide. The abuser might demonstrate behaviors such as name-calling, yelling, blaming, shaming, intimidation and controlling, reports HelpGuide.org.
Warnings
If you suspect someone you know is being abused there are signals of mental abuse you should be looking for. According to HelpGuide.org, warnings that mental abuse is occurring include withdrawing from friends and family, rarely going out alone without their partner, limited access to money or credit cards, major changes in personality, an overall decrease in self-esteem, checks in often with their partner or caregiver to give a report, does not question anything their partner or caregiver says or does, displays anxiety or is fearful about letting their partner or caregiver down, talks about their partner's temper or jealously and attempts at or thoughts of suicide.
Significance
Mental abuse can have long and lasting effects that remain after the abuse has subsided. According to MayoClinic.com, there are a number of harmful consequences of mental abuse including low self-esteem, attention disorders, poor relationships, engagement in delinquent or violent behaviors, depression, learning disabilities, anxiety, inability to trust others, substance abuse, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and personality disorders.
Considerations
If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of emotional abuse you can take action to get help. According to the HelpGuide.org, it is important to remember when reaching out to someone who may be a victim of abuse, they may resist your help at first. They may feel scared, ashamed, confused, emotionally drained, hopeless and depressed. Therefore, it is important to take small steps and be gentle. Allow the person to know you care and you are willing to help in anyway possible. Remember it is important for them to be able to trust you, so talk to them in private and never reveal anything they confided in you.
