As we can"t see emotional wounds,it doesnt mean its not there, Emotional abuse can be as painful as broken bones.

When most people hear the term Domestic Violence it gives them a perception of physical assault which results in physical injuries to the victim. But domestic violence is not only about the physical assault which seems to be destructive and devastating, but it also includes psychological, sexual, financial and emotional abuse as well. Most of us are unaware that emotional abuse can also feel as destructive and damaging as physical abuse, and can severely impact your mental health. The scars of emotional abuse are real and long-lasting as well as having a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. It can leave you feeling depressed, anxious or even suicidal. It can take many forms like:

1) Abusing verbally, yelling & insulting. 

2) Constantly criticising, finding faults & rejecting one's feelings, thoughts & opinions. 

3) Gaslighting, which is making you doubt your own feelings and thoughts and even your sanity by manipulating the truth. 

4) Calling names or telling you that you are stupid, purposely saying & doing things to hurt you, publicly embarrassing & blaming you for everything.

5) limiting freedom of movement, stopping you from contacting other people (such as friends or family). It may also include stopping you from doing the things you normally do – social activities, sports, school or work etc.

6) Financial Abuse, which is controlling or withholding your money, preventing you from working or studying, stealing from you. 

If you’re someone who is experiencing emotional abuse, it’s important that you seek help and remember that what is happening to you is not your fault but not to take any action can be. Violence is unacceptable in any form and the perpetrator is fully responsible for this. It could happen in any of your relationships. Making excuses for the perpetrator's actions, hiding the pain and accepting such behaviours can be encouraging and leads to a vicious cycle of abuse.

The need of the hour is to understand that reaching out for help is not shameful or a sign of weakness; it's about having compassion for yourself and being in charge enough to say 'No' to abusive treatment which doesn't mean for you.