Gaslighting is equal to emotional manipulation, and dealing with it is something not many people know how to do. In relationships, the perpetrators (gaslighters) hope to suppress and override their partners. This behavior can cause exhaustion of the mind and sometimes challenge one’s sanity. Apart from questioning the validity of the victim’s thoughts, they will also feel overpowered and voiceless. See other gaslighting-stemmed challenges below.
Challenges Faced When Dealing with Gaslighting or Emotional Manipulation
Never consider putting up once you notice gaslighting, as the best way to deal with it is to exit the relationship completely. This is because the consequences of remaining in such a space may lead to irreparable damage. Here are some signs that emotional manipulation is about to set in:
Depression
This is one effect on the table, and it manifests in different forms. Sadly, at the end of the day, it leaves you feeling less confident, gloomy, and even suicidal in some cases.
Inability to Think for Yourself
It becomes hard to arrive at a conclusion, and when you do, you doubt your opinions.
Some People Can Experience PTSD
Per Psych Central, studies showed that nurses who suffered gaslighting showed symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
It is important to note that gaslighting is not restricted to lovers. It can be prevalent in mother-and-child relationships or any kind of partnership where you depend on each other.
Combat Gaslighting Today
The moment you are able to clarify that you are in an emotional manipulation base, opt-out. Here’s how to do so.
Be Aware
In treating any behavior as the victim, you must recognize what you are fighting. As soon as you are clouded with doubts and experience low self-esteem, it’s a red flag.
Deal With Gaslighting By Encouraging Yourself
If this means affirming your worth daily while staring into the mirror, don’t hesitate. Once you can cheer yourself up, it reduces the effects of gaslighting.
Try Creating Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are important in any type of relationship. This tells the other person what and what not to do. So, it is easy to get off the claws of emotional manipulation this way.
Stay Away from Unproductive Arguments
The moment you see an argument only leaves you in a fix, avoid it. If it is impossible to clarify things without debates, then set an expiration date for such a relationship.
You have the ability to change the template of your relationship if it involves gaslighting. Never trade your mental health to please a person. And be quick to log off once that relationship drains your energy!
