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Abuse

Abuse can take many forms — emotional, physical, sexual, or verbal. Whatever form it takes, abuse can have a profound effect on your mental health. According to the US Department of Health & Human Services, people who have experienced abuse or trauma are more likely to develop a mental health condition such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder. Many survivors of abuse experience eating disorders, drug abuse, or self-harm as they cope with its lingering toxic effects.

If you are currently in an abusive situation, it can be frightening to reach out for help, but please know that support is out there. If you are in danger, call 911 or go to your nearest hospital or police department. You can reach out for free guidance at the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) or the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-HOPE). 

The effects of abuse — whether from childhood or later in life — can be enduring, but healing is possible. Usually a combination of therapy, medication, and support groups is recommended for people who have experienced abuse. Remember that you are not alone, and the abuse you suffered is not your fault.

gaslighting, how to spot it
Read More
Published on: 22 Nov 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Ashley Ertel, LCSW, BCD
  • 8 minute read
Clinically Reviewed by Ashley Ertel, LCSW, BCD

Gaslighting in Relationships: Signs and Prevention

Published on: 22 Nov 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Ashley Ertel, LCSW, BCD
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Nov 22, 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Ashley Ertel, LCSW, BCD
Updated on 9/26/2022 Although the term “gaslighting” is considered a fairly modern word, this type of psychological manipulation…
Can Abusers Change?
Read More
Published on: 23 Oct 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Cynthia V. Catchings LCSW-S
  • 8 minute read
Clinically Reviewed by Cynthia V. Catchings LCSW-S

Can Abusers Change?

Published on: 23 Oct 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Cynthia V. Catchings LCSW-S
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Oct 23, 2019
Clinically Reviewed by Cynthia V. Catchings LCSW-S
#MeToo Has Revealed the Need For Change. But one big question remains: How? The year was 1980, and…
A woman curls up next to a window
Read More
Published on: 30 Oct 2018
  • 4 minute read

Types of Domestic Violence – Signs and What You Can Do

Published on: 30 Oct 2018
  • Written byLadan Nikravan Hayes
  • Oct 30, 2018
While abuse is often stereotypically portrayed in only one manner, as physical violence, there are actually several types…
A man and a woman are silhouetted in front of a sunset
Read More
Published on: 30 Oct 2018
  • 5 minute read

Dealing With Complicated Feelings Around Abusers

Published on: 30 Oct 2018
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Oct 30, 2018
Recently, a man I know was outed as a serial sexual harasser. I say “know” in a rather…
A torn red piece of paper exposes the words "#MeToo"
Read More
Published on: 29 Oct 2018
  • 4 minute read

One Year After #MeToo

Published on: 29 Oct 2018
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Oct 29, 2018
The day after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford testified before congress about her experience of sexual violence in relation…
A woman with "love shouldn't hurt" painted on her back
Read More
Published on: 29 Oct 2018
  • 4 minute read

Highlighting Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Published on: 29 Oct 2018
  • Written byLadan Nikravan Hayes
  • Oct 29, 2018
In an effort to raise awareness about domestic violence in the U.S. and across the globe, October has…
Woman on bed with head in her hands
Read More
Published on: 19 Mar 2018
  • 4 minute read

My Abusive Partner Promises They’ll Change. Will They?

Published on: 19 Mar 2018
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Mar 19, 2018
“I promise I’ll change.” These are four words most people in a relationship with an abusive partner have…
Young woman gazing downward in a field
Read More
Published on: 01 Mar 2018
  • 4 minute read

Is It a Normal Fight or Verbal Abuse? Here’s How to Tell

Published on: 01 Mar 2018
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Mar 01, 2018
Even the most dynamic of duos has the occasional fight. Whether it begins with “Who forgot to take…
woman hugging comforting her crying friend
Read More
Published on: 07 Dec 2017
  • 6 minute read

Why Doesn’t My Friend Leave Their Abusive Partner – and How Can I Help?

Published on: 07 Dec 2017
  • Written byReina Gattuso
  • Dec 07, 2017
You may see your friend crying, hear your friend’s partner make demeaning comments towards them, or notice they…
sexual violence survivor with stop written on hand
Read More
Published on: 15 Sep 2017
  • 5 minute read

Who Bears The Mental Health Burden For Discussing Sexual Violence?

Published on: 15 Sep 2017
  • Written byRenee Fabian
  • Sep 15, 2017
She was asking for it. Boys will be boys. What was she expecting dressed like that? I’d bet you…

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