Hey there, friend.
Today, we’re starting a 7-day journey—one that’s all about healing, reclaiming your power, and finally putting words to what’s been weighing you down. And where better to begin than talking about verbal abuse—because let’s be honest, a lot of people still don’t understand what it actually looks like.
So, let’s break it down. No judgment. No pressure. Just real talk.
Verbal Abuse Isn’t Just Yelling
When people hear “abuse,” they often think of physical violence. But abuse wears a lot of masks. One of the most overlooked—and most damaging—is verbal abuse.
It’s not always loud. It’s not always angry. Sometimes, it’s whispered through gritted teeth. Other times, it’s a joke that cuts deep. And too often, it hides behind “I didn’t mean it like that” or “you’re just being sensitive.”
But here’s the truth:
If someone’s words constantly made you feel small, confused, ashamed, or afraid… that was verbal abuse.
And naming it doesn’t make you dramatic. It makes you aware.
Let’s Get Clear: What Is Verbal Abuse?
Verbal abuse is any use of words (or tone) to control, demean, manipulate, or hurt another person. It’s meant to chip away at your sense of self, sometimes so slowly you barely notice it happening—until one day, you realize you don’t recognize yourself anymore.
It can sound like:
- “You’re lucky I even put up with you.”
- “You always ruin everything.”
- “No one else would ever love you.”
- “You’re too sensitive.”
- “You’re crazy. That never happened.”
Sound familiar?
Yeah… you’re not alone.
The Gray Areas: Not All Abuse Looks Like Rage
Not all verbal abuse involves yelling or name-calling. Sometimes, it shows up as:
- Silent treatment: withholding communication to punish you.
- Sarcasm: cloaked digs that humiliate you “just for fun.”
- Criticism disguised as concern: “I’m only saying this because I care.”
- Gaslighting: making you doubt your own reality.
- Interrupting and dismissing: not letting you speak or finish your thoughts.
- Mocking or mimicking you to make you feel foolish.
These behaviors can wear you down just as much—sometimes even more—than the obviously aggressive stuff.
Why It’s Okay (and Important) to Call It What It Is
Listen, it can be really hard to use the word “abuse.” Especially if you loved them. Especially if they weren’t always awful. Especially if you’re still trying to figure out what the heck even happened.
But here’s the deal:
You can love someone and still acknowledge they hurt you.
You can have good memories and still name the harm.
Calling it abuse doesn’t make you weak. It makes you honest. And honesty is the first step toward healing.
Today’s Healing Prompt: “What Did I Hear That Hurt?”
Grab your journal, open a note on your phone, or just reflect quietly. Ask yourself:
“What words or phrases stuck with me the most?”
“How did they make me feel about myself?”
“Did I start to believe those things?”
This isn’t about reliving the pain—it’s about reclaiming your story. The more you name the harm, the less power it has over you.
In Case You Need to Hear This Today…
You’re not imagining things.
You’re not too sensitive.
You’re not to blame for someone else’s cruelty.
You’re allowed to feel hurt.
And you deserve kindness—especially from yourself.
This journey is about you, your truth, and your healing. One step, one post, one breath at a time.
We’re just getting started, but you’ve already taken a huge step.
Keep going. You’ve got this. 💛
A Day in the Life of Me 
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