Emotional problems FROM THE PAST

You can redeem yourself and get the favour of the people around you if you are committed to changing your behaviour

- Sibongile Moremi

THERE are various reasons why people shy away from dealing with emotional abuse, or postpone doing so. Emotional abuse that remains hidden and unaddressed by the victim is a recipe for an unhappy life, and it can have serious long-term effects on a person’s health.

UNDERSTANDING EMOTIONAL ABUSE

The dictionary describes emotional abuse as a form of abuse characterised by a person subjecting or exposing another behaviour that may result in psychological trauma. This trauma can include anxiety and chronic depression, or result in post-traumatic stress disorder. Experts indicate that emotional abuse can happen to anyone at any time in their lives.

All age groups can experience emotional abuse and this can have devastating consequences on relationships and all individuals involved. Just because there is no physical evidence of emotional abuse, does not mean this form of abuse isn’t real.

Emotional abuse has also been referred to as chronic verbal aggression by some researchers. People who suffer from emotional abuse tend to display a very low self-esteem, personality changes (such as becoming withdrawn), and may even become depressed, anxious or suicidal. Move! speaks to Thokozane Chiloane, a mental health practitioner, regarding the topic.

THE CAUSE OF TRAUMA

Emotional and psychological trauma can also be caused by a one-time event such as a horrible accident, or a violent attack, says Thokozane. She says trauma can also stem from ongoing stress, such as living in a crime-ridden neighbourhood or struggling with a chronic disease.