The phrase "abusive relationship" usually conjures up images of physical abuse such as hitting, kicking and broken bones. But there are other forms of abuse as well, including emotional abuse or psychological and emotional dominance and control of one partner over another. Because emotional abuse is often less obvious than physical abuse, people in emotionally abusive relationships often do not realize it until the abuse has escalated to intense levels. By knowing the signs of emotional abuse and the best ways to seek help, people who find themselves in emotionally abusive relationships can learn how to escape.
Step 1
Learn about the characteristics of emotionally abusive relationships to determine if you are in one. A person may exert emotional abuse in many ways, including taunting, public humiliation, control, excessive jealousy, isolating the victim, withholding affection and playing mind games. The abuser is often manipulative, and may try to elicit pity and pretend to be the one being victimized.
Step 2
Seek professional help. Even if you do not feel physically threatened, emotional abuse can be just as traumatic as physical abuse, and the victim often feels confused, hopeless and worthless, making it difficult to take action. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for referrals to local counseling centers that can help.
Step 3
Lean on family and friends. Turn to the people you trust and care about to help you through the challenges of ending your relationship and recovering from the abuse. Establishing a support system will help you find strength and hope as you begin a healthier phase of life.
Step 4
Create a plan of escape. Seek help from your support network to come up with a plan to leave. Depending on your living situation and the intensity of abuse, you may want to seek sanctuary at a shelter, or plan on staying with a friend or relative for support and safety.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't allow yourself to be sucked into mind games and manipulative tactics by your abusive partner when you are ending the relationship. Remember that you have the right to end it at any time of your own free will, and you do not owe any more of an explanation than you feel is necessary. After you leave, allow yourself to grieve over the relationship and work through your feelings, but do not allow yourself to become too isolated or withdrawn from your support system because they will help you stay strong and stay away from your abuser.
- If you feel threatened or in danger at any time, do not hesitate to call a 24-hour crisis line, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, or to chat with a trained support person on the hotline's website.
Things You'll Need
- Support system
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