Relationships where one can experience the freedom to explore and discover oneself through hope, love and acceptance provide security and space to grow. However, relationships where abuse is present can confuse the very core of one’s understanding and expectations of what makes a relationship healthy, and of who one is as well.

This can happen with any form of abuse including emotional abuse. Emotional abuse can be difficult to see by the outside observer and is often not considered as traumatizing as physical or sexual abuse. Research shows however, that the effects of isolation, domination, intimidation, manipulation, blaming, shaming and terrorizing another can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and other symptoms in the victim.

A person who is experiencing emotional abuse will often feel fearful, alone and confused. Because there are no marks, no open wounds they often suffer silently. Their confidence and sense of self are often shattered to the point they have difficulty identifying with themselves separate from the abuser and are often fearful of reaching out  to others. If you sense someone you know may be in an abusive relationship reach out to them. Acknowledging the abuse is occurring is the first step to healing.

If you are in an abusive relationship and want to begin the process of healing, a trained counselor can help you navigate through the steps towards healing. At Life Enhancement Counseling Services in Orlando, we have trained mental health counselors who can help you begin healing. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment.