Trigger warning: This article talks about abuse.
When we think of abuse, we think of the physical kind. The kind that leaves bruises and blood. But why don’t we think about mental and emotional abuse just as much? When you are emotionally abused, you are being abused from the inside out. When you go out, it might not be as noticeable as a physical mark. People say “just leave” when it seems like such a simple task but you just can’t. The manipulation and deceiving words that they (the abuser) says to you make it seem like they know what is best for you. You work up all the courage to stand up for yourself, but they see that as a threat, so they tear you down more. It is a cycle. But you have to stop and think: what is keeping me here? You become isolated and most of the time you have nobody to talk to because you have been told by that one person that they are the only person you need.
If you have to say “I love them but,” you need to consider if that “but” is worth staying. Worth the crying yourself to sleep at night. Worth the fear of them leaving before you can and you will be completely alone. Emotional abuse can lead to mental illness’ such as anxiety and depression. Your mental health is valid and always come first before someone else. It is not your fault. From someone who has experienced severe emotional abuse in the past, you are going to be okay. You are safe and you are loved. Everyone deserves a healthy, loving relationship. 1 in 3 high school students (or college) experience some sort of dating violence in their relationships.
Some signs of abuse can be: Telling you that you can never do anything right, showing signs of jealousy over your friends or the time you spend away, controlling who you can see/what you are aloud to do/what you wear, etc.
If you are being abused, please call: 1-800-799-7233 (The National Domestic Hotline)
