Recovering from Verbal Abuse Is Not a Linear Journey

It can be discouraging for many individuals to move away from and begin verbal abuse recovery once they realize the journey is not straightforward. Unlike overcoming other life obstacles, recovery from verbal abuse may present setbacks, leaving an individual with lost hope for a healthy relationship. Although the process may not be as simple as avoiding an abuser, it is possible to hold meaningful connections with others. 

Fear and Self-Esteem Can Play a Significant Part in Verbal Abuse Recovery

I was scared when I realized that I was the victim of verbal abuse. I didn't know how to rise above the abuse and seek out better relationships for my mental health. Staring into the face of abuse can be daunting as you try to navigate a path to recovery from verbal abuse. 

When my self-esteem was low, I was unable to believe that I deserved better. I saw my worth through someone else's eyes, leaving me afraid that I would never feel secure in a healthy relationship. This restriction prohibited me from seeing the possibilities without verbal abuse. Unfortunately, I struggled for many years to break away from the hold that verbal abuse had on me, even when I was no longer facing this toxic behavior. Today, I know that these challenges were a hurdle that I had to overcome. 

Recovery from Verbal Abuse Can Be Enlightening

Although there were times when I felt hopeless, I am thankful I eventually found healthy, meaningful relationships. Not every personal connection I made during the recovery process was beneficial. However, I ended up learning something new about myself during this time. 

As I healed, I began to see where my limitations were and what I was comfortable dealing with while in a relationship. I started to understand where I was willing to compromise and when I wasn't. This shift in focus helped me realize what I valued and wanted from a connection with others. 

Of course, my healing journey was not an easy process. I spent many years in therapy, learning how to use the proper coping tools to navigate my personal relationships. I still have days when my verbally abusive past creeps into my present life, but they are more infrequent as I grow and move forward. 

It's essential to remember that recovering from verbal abuse will take time and effort. You may have good and bad days, but with the proper help, you, too, can have honest, meaningful relationships.