### What is Emotional Abuse? Emotional abuse is any harmful behavior that is not physical. It often involves a pattern of behavior that occurs repeatedly over time. This type of abuse can happen in any relationship, whether it's with a partner, parent, friend, or coworker. ### Signs of Emotional Abuse - **Possessiveness and Jealousy:** Abusers may try to control you by being overly possessive and jealous. - **Gaslighting:** Making you question your reality and sanity. - **Manipulation:** Using threats or ultimatums to control you. - **Humiliation:** Putting you down or making fun of you in front of others. - **Silent Treatment:** Ignoring you as a form of punishment. ### Effects on Physical and Emotional Health Emotional abuse can lead to various physical and emotional issues, including: - **Emotional Distress:** Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. - **Physical Symptoms:** Headaches, stomach issues, and even chronic conditions like diabetes and heart problems. - **PTSD:** Posttraumatic stress disorder, which can make it difficult to recover from the abuse. ### How to Protect Yourself - **Reach Out:** Talk to someone you trust, like a friend or family member. - **Create a Safety Plan:** Plan where you will go and how you will get there if things become unsafe. - **Prioritize Yourself:** Make time for self-care and focus on your needs. - **Set Boundaries:** Establish rules to protect your time, peace, and space. ### Conclusion Emotional abuse is serious and can have long-term effects on your health. If you notice signs of emotional abuse, it's important to seek help and set boundaries to protect yourself.