In an abusive relationship, one partner exerts physical, mental, emotional or financial control over the other. Contrary to popular belief, abuse can take many forms besides hitting and other forms of physical violence. Many relationships are emotionally or verbally abusive, which can be hard to identify. Abusive relationships are about power and control, and even after the relationship is over, the abused partner will feel a wide range of effects.
Low Self-Esteem
One of the most pervasive effects of an abusive relationship on the abused partner is low self-esteem. When suffering from abuse, whether it's verbal, physical or emotional, the abused often starts to believe the abuser's criticism and lack of respect, and starts to feel worthless. People who are abused tend to question themselves and their judgment, believing that their abuser's opinions and demands are more valid and important than their own. Abusive partners often dominate everything in the other's life, making the abused feel helpless and inadequate. Even when people realize they are in an abusive relationship and manage to get out, they often continue to beat themselves up, feeling bad for ending up with an abuser or feeling like they don't deserve anything more.
Denial
Denial is another common effect of abusive relationships. Many people who are in abusive relationships do not want to believe that the person they love is abusing them. Abusive people usually start out charming and gradually exert more and more control in the relationship, so it can be hard for the victim to recognize the abuse. According to the Center for Relationship Abuse Awareness, abused partners often remain loyal to their abuser, even after the relationship has ended, because they are in denial about the abuse. Facing the facts of abuse can be terrifying and hard to deal with, so many victims take the denial route.
Depression
Depression is a common side effect of abusive relationships. While in the relationship, victims tend to feel helpless and confused about why the abuser is so hard on them. Feelings of sadness and despair are common among those who have been in abusive relationships. Abused partners often blame themselves and may feel like no matter how hard they try, it's never good enough for their partner. Even after leaving an abusive relationship, victims often experience depression as they deal with a mix of confusion, loneliness, sadness, loss and helplessness.
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