Relationships are complex and sometimes marred by domestic violence and other forms of abuse. While some common cases of domestic abuse leave physical scars, invisible abuse leaves behind emotional and psychological wounds that are not immediately visible to the naked eye.
These wounds can be just as damaging and long-lasting as physical abuse but they often go unnoticed or unrecognized by both the victim and those around them. The following signs may indicate that you are suffering from invisible abuse.
Frequent humiliation
Frequent humiliation can be a hard-to-detect sign of invisible abuse. If your partner consistently mocks or embarrasses you in private or public settings, undermines your confidence or intentionally humiliates you in front of others, it can erode your self-esteem and create a sense of worthlessness. This form of emotional abuse can be insidious as it may initially be disguised as playful banter or dismissed as harmless teasing.
Constant fear or anxiety
Another subtle sign of invisible abuse is the pervasive feeling of fear or anxiety in the relationship. If you find yourself walking on eggshells around your partner, constantly worried about their reactions or feeling afraid to express your true thoughts and feelings, it could be a red flag. Invisible abusers often use intimidation, threats or unpredictable behavior to maintain control over their victims leading to a state of chronic fear and hypervigilance.
Isolation and control
Abusers seek to exert dominance and maintain power over their victims and one effective way they do this is by isolating them from friends, family and support networks. If your partner actively discourages you from spending time with loved ones, insists on knowing your whereabouts at all times or monitors your communication and activities, it could be a sign of invisible abuse. This isolation not only makes it harder for you to seek help or escape the abusive situation but also reinforces the abuser’s control over your life.
If you realize that you’re suffering from invisible abuse, you may consider seeking both psychological and legal assistance to determine your options.