Ten Signs You Are Being Gaslit
Ten Signs You Are Being Gaslit
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the abuser seeks to make the victim question their reality, memory, or perceptions. Here are ten signs that may indicate you are experiencing gaslighting:
1. Constant Self-Doubt
Overview
You frequently doubt your own thoughts, feelings, and perceptions, often second-guessing yourself.
Signs
Overthinking: You overthink and question your memory of events.
Dependence: You rely on the abuser to validate your experiences.
Sources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
2. Feeling Confused and Disoriented
Overview
You often feel confused and disoriented, struggling to make sense of your experiences.
Signs
Memory Issues: Difficulty recalling past events accurately.
Disorientation: Feeling lost or unsure about what's real.
Sources:
Psychology Today
3. Apologizing Frequently
Overview
You find yourself apologizing constantly, even when you’re not at fault.
Signs
Over-Apologizing: Apologizing to keep the peace or avoid conflict.
Feeling Guilty: Feeling guilty for things that aren't your fault.
Sources:
GoodTherapy
4. Making Excuses for the Abuser
Overview
You make excuses for the abuser's behavior, rationalizing their actions to others and yourself.
Signs
Defending Behavior: Justifying their actions even when they hurt you.
Minimizing: Downplaying their abusive behavior.
Sources:
Healthline
5. Believing You Are Too Sensitive
Overview
The abuser accuses you of being overly sensitive or emotional, making you question your reactions.
Signs
Doubting Emotions: Believing you overreact to situations.
Suppressed Feelings: Suppressing your emotions to avoid criticism.
Sources:
Verywell Mind
6. Feeling Isolated
Overview
The abuser isolates you from friends and family, making you feel alone and dependent on them.
Signs
Loss of Support: Gradual disconnection from your support network.
Increased Dependency: Relying more on the abuser for support.
Sources:
PsychCentral
7. Experiencing Mood Swings
Overview
Frequent mood swings due to the constant emotional manipulation and stress from the abuser.
Signs
Emotional Rollercoaster: Fluctuating between extreme emotions.
Increased Anxiety: High levels of anxiety and nervousness.
Sources:
8. Feeling Inadequate
Overview
The abuser makes you feel worthless and inadequate, undermining your confidence.
Signs
Low Self-Esteem: Feeling not good enough.
Constant Criticism: Frequent belittling and criticism from the abuser.
Sources:
9. Questioning Your Sanity
Overview
The abuser’s manipulation leads you to question your sanity and mental health.
Signs
Doubt Reality: Feeling like you’re losing touch with reality.
Mental Health Decline: Experiencing mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
Sources:
10. Feeling Hopeless and Trapped
Overview
You feel trapped in the relationship, unable to see a way out or improve the situation.
Signs
Hopelessness: Feeling that nothing will change.
Fear of Leaving: Fear of the consequences of leaving the abuser.
Sources:
Psychology Today
Conclusion: Recognizing the Signs
Recognizing the signs of gaslighting is the first step toward reclaiming your reality and well-being. If you identify with these signs, consider seeking support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional.
At Moriel Mental Health (MMH), we specialize in helping victims of gaslighting and narcissistic abuse. Our experienced therapists provide compassionate and effective treatment. Please contact us to book an appointment. We work all throughout California and are here to support you.
Sources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Psychology Today
GoodTherapy
Healthline
Verywell Mind
PsychCentral
