How to Overcome Verbal Abuse & Neglect

Exposure to abuse and neglect is one of the most painful experiences a person can go through. The ramifications of abuse are extensive and may even result in the development of psychosocial disorders, most notably Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, which alters many aspects of normal functioning. Those who have endured abuse are not condemned to a life defined by pain, however; many victims are able to overcome the incident and live a healthy and productive life.

Instructions

• 1

  Communicate with others about the incident. Confiding in friends and family will lighten the load you are carrying and lessen the intensity of your fears. The development of honest relationships will strengthen your resilience and help you overcome emotional pain and rebuild your confidence.

• 2

  Consider the source of the pain you are experiencing and reflect on how your perceptions have shaped your mentality. It is very likely that you have idealized the abuser in your mind and given him more authority than he deserves. Identify the abuser's behaviors and compare them to the conduct that should be present in any healthy, respectful relationship.

• 3

  Seek professional treatment. The result of exposure to abuse and neglect is often the development of unusual thinking patterns and skewed emotional regulation. A trained psychologist will be able to consider your case and determine the best way to provide you with treatment. If you cannot afford private counseling, visit your local County Mental Health Center to obtain a variety of inexpensive therapy options.

• 4

  Use your experience to help others. Listening to stories that are similar to yours and sharing your own experiences will lessen the abuser's influence over you. It will also keep your mind occupied and help you identify how abuse can dramatically transform a person's thinking.

• 5

  Forgive your abuser. Even if he does not express regret for his actions, choosing to let it go will make it impossible for him to inflict any additional damage. You can choose to inform him of your decision or determine privately to stop dwelling on the situation. Whatever your choice, it will enable you to develop an identity outside of the pain you experienced and start enjoying your life.