Emotional abusemay lead to PTSD or another stress disorder known asC-PTSD(complex post-traumatic stress disorder).
The two stress disorders have several overlapping symptoms.
But C-PTSD often causes more extensive issues with emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and negative self-thoughts.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
As a result, some people with C-PTSD may need long-term therapy to recover from emotional abuse.
This article explains how you could develop C-PTSD or PTSD from emotional abuse.
Learn more about emotional abuse, its effects, and the signs you may be experiencing it.
How Is Emotional Abuse Related to PTSD?
Abusers can use many non-violent tactics to assert their power over someone.
These emotionally abusive behaviors are meant to terrorize and control another person and keep them in theabusive relationship.
Still, understanding C-PTSD helps providers more accurately define a person’s experience and form an appropriate treatment plan.
These functions and abilities have been found to be decreased in a person who has experienced trauma.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
Mental Health
Emotional abuse can impact your mental health.
Repeatedly experiencing emotional abuse can wear down your sense of self, self-worth, and confidence.
You may find yourself feeling constantly afraid, ashamed, guilty, unwanted, powerless, and hopeless.
You may feel like you’re unable to feel positive feelings.
Emotional abuse can even lead todepressionandanxiety.
These experiences affect how you see yourself and others, even when the abusive relationship ends.
Many people who have experienced abuse feel distrustful of others and cannot form stable relationships.
They may end up in another abusive relationship because the dysfunctional relationship dynamic has been normalized.
Treatment for PTSD includes medications, psychotherapy, or both.
PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that affects your thoughts, memory, emotions, and thinking.
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