Top Five Warning Signs of Abusive Relationships and Friendships

1. Insecurity: Your partner is very insecure because of a previous relationship or maybe as a child growing up. Lack of attention or negative attention can lead to insecurity. If your new partner shows signs of insecurity, let it be a warning sign.Some signs may include:-low self esteem or not sure of them self-talk as if they are not worthyWith these characteristics, the abuser will use them to belittle you to get you to their level. Although it is sad for them, don't allow them to put you through that. You are worthy.

2. Controlling: Your partner may not allow you to interact with other people. Sometimes not even family members or friends. They want you all to them self. It kind of feels like being in a trap or cage. It is especially hard if you are outgoing and love people. There are other ways to control you as well.With emotional abuse the control is in the mind and your feelings. The abuser will cut you down or belittle you. I have found that they tend to shift the blame on you or want you to feel sorry for them.

3. Selfishness: They lack the attention they really desire to have because they are already insecure, so they are always worried about themselves, alone. They want to know what is in it for them, no matter what. They will tell you things to make you feel good as long as they get what they want out of it.Even when it comes to your feelings or emotions, they will not comfort you in anyway. This can cause you to become either hard or just break. It is not fun. I have expressed in a previous article that women need that emotional security. It is one thing not to get it and a whole other thing to have your emotions destroyed.

2. Manipulation: The abuser tends to make you feel that it is all your fault. They can't seem to come to terms that they are the one causing the pain. They shift blame and they don't want to understand you. They make you feel inferior. They like to play mind games as well. That is also part of control.
Some forms of manipulation include:-lack of communication-cold shoulder/no eye contactThey tend to shut down which is a form of manipulation and control. I know you have heard it said that communication is key in a relationship. YES it is, very much so.

1. Anger and Violence: The abuser will yell out in anger. They can 'turn on a dime' with mood swings. It doesn't become physical abuse until they hit or hurt you in any way. Well it is emotional and psychological abuse when they do it to them self.Some signs of anger and violence:-they harm them self-break things or throw them. This form of abuse often goes unnoticed but for those who suffer, it is very noticeable. You may not see scars on the body, but there are some on the heart and mind. This is a silent abuse, that harms your inner being. Don't feel trapped because there is a way out.If you are someone who suffers from this kind of abuse, do not hesitate to leave as soon as possible. You are not alone. To stay in this kind of relationship can cause you deep depression, emotional pain, seclusion and even a trip to the psychiatric ward. Please get help.

Please pay more attention. If you know or have a feeling that you or someone you know is being abused in any way shape or form please report it.

Quote: "As long as you stay silent you are a victim. Once you tell someone. You become a survivor!" -Anonymous.