Emotional abuse can come in many shapes and forms, and it affects everybody differently. Many people are left traumatized by the experience, leading many victims to do things differently than other people would.
If you or someone that you know is dealing with emotional abuse, please seek the guidance of a counselor. If you have been abused, and you are recovering, then you can relate when I say that the emotionally abused person loves differently. Now, don’t get me wrong, I didn’t say love less. Actually, it could be argued that they may love you more. But, that is for a different article.
1. They Need Their Own Space
Victims are often left feeling empty and alone, and many of them are dealing with quite a lot on the inside. Because of this, it is expected that they may set boundaries for their own personal space. If not, please grant them this respect anyways.
2. They Are Guarded
Due to the fact that they have been taken through the ringer, the emotionally abused person is more guarded. This is to protect them from further harm. However, once they get to know and trust you, things will change.
3. It Will Take Time Before They Let You In
Trust is not something that comes easy for a person with any kind of disorder. However, if you give them time they will learn to let you in.
4. They Might Be Overly Suspicious
Going through a traumatic event leaves many people feeling suspicious of other peoples motives.
5. We Are Affectionate……On Our Terms
Emotionally abused people need love too, but we also need space.
6. Sometimes We Suspect the Worst Out of People
Having a loved one hurt you can completely rewire your brain, oftentimes altering your perception of other people. Â While we may suspect the worst out of other people, we always hope for the best…. Don’t let us down!
7. We Over Apologize
When you have been demeaned and degraded verbally by another person you trust, you begin to think everything you do is wrong. We don’t mean to get on your nerves, but we will apologize for EVERYTHING!
8. We May OverreactÂ
As a victim of trauma, our brains are hypersensitive to everything. Even the slightest situation could look like impending trouble.
9. We May Contradict Themselves
Due to past abuse, we have built a need to change at the drop of a dime to accommodate someone else. Because of this, we may come off as flakey.
10. We’ll Always Be There
Because we know what it feels like to be left, we will always be there when you need us! There is no need to feel like you can’t talk to us or that you have no place in our lives.