Can You Heal the Negative Effects of Verbal Abuse?

The question is, can you heal from verbal abuse? Verbal abuse is prevalent in many relationships. It does not choose age, skin color, or social standing. Instead, you can find this harmful behavior in various places, like the school playground, between partners at home, or even in the workplace. With such a widespread problem, is it even possible to heal from the negative effects of verbal abuse?

My Healing from Verbal Abuse 

The healing journey away from verbal abuse will look different for each individual. The unique circumstances surrounding my situation left me with a long journey in an attempt to heal my broken soul. Your journey may look similar or different from mine, and that's okay. 

Healing from Verbal Abuse Was Hard Because I Was Angry

I was angry for many years, faulting my abusers and lashing out at others who didn't understand my position and past. I could not see past the harmful actions of my abusers, reliving the abuse daily. This anger fueled me as I tried to put space between myself and those who treated me poorly. 

Healing from Verbal Abuse Was Hard Because I Was Hopeless

Before I started regular therapy to heal from verbal abuse, hopelessness was constant in my life. I was living in fight-flight-freeze mode and could not recognize the positive aspects of my life. I felt lost that I was left with damaged self-esteem and unhealthy boundaries while my abusers lived life as if nothing was wrong. 

It Was Hard to Heal from Verbal Abuse Because I Wanted Vindication

I wallowed in self-pity for many years. I wanted others to see how harmful my abusers were and what they did to me. I thought that if other people saw my abusers as I did, it could right the wrongs I suffered. Unfortunately, even with knowledge of my past abuse, not everyone felt the same way I did, making my healing from verbal abuse journey more challenging for me to work through. 

I Started Therapy to Heal from Verbal Abuse

My healing from verbal abuse with professional therapy was not easy. I went through several counselors until I found the best one to suit my needs. Even so, it took over a year before I felt comfortable with my therapist, allowing me to start the healing process. I was presented with several different techniques and resources I could use when I faced verbal abuse or to manage my feelings when I became overwhelmed. 

It Is Possible to Heal the Negative Effects of Verbal Abuse

Healing from the negative effects of verbal abuse can be challenging. What tools work for one individual may not work for someone else. Your circumstances with verbal abuse will differ from mine. You may need more or less time to heal from the harmful words you experienced. 

I am still healing from my past, although it's been years. Some days I still struggle with my anger and lose focus on what is important for my mental health. Giving yourself some grace is important if you are still trying to cope and recover from a verbally abusive situation. 

You may have goys and bad days, making it difficult to recognize your healing journey. If you are stuck and need help navigating away from verbal abuse in your own life, visit our resources page to find assistance in your area.