It took me more than 10 years to figure out I was in an emotionally abusive relationship with my ex-husband. The trouble is that society often paints a picture of abuse as being physical not verbal, emotional, economic or sexual. During my marriage I remember thinking, “If he ever hits me, I am leaving.” However, he never did hit me and at that point I was basically giving permission for him to do anything else.
- Feeling like you are on egg-shells and always worried about how your partner will react
- Makes you feel like less of a person than you know yourself to be
- You feel like you have no say when it comes to money, spending, purchase, etc…
- You spend too many hours trying to think up all possible scenarios in attempt to avoid a fight
- You feel certain rules are set only for you while he/she does whatever they choose
- Says/implies you are crazy or you are starting to believe you are the crazy one in the relationship
- Makes jokes that put you down, but then says you are too sensitive when you bring it up
- Expects you to act a specific way or dress a certain way (hair, nails, clothes, etc…)
- Will use children against you (threatening he/she will get custody and take the kids away if you were to leave, etc…)
- You feel things are your fault, he/she places fault on your head and claims/implies you made them angry
- Receives affection mainly after a fight, wants you to forgive and forget, makes claims it won’t happen again or “I will change”
- You are starting to second guess yourself or feel you can’t do anything right
Resources:
- 15 Signs You’re in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship
- 10 Signs You May Be In An Emotionally Abusive Relationship
