Recognize

How to Know If You're Being Gaslighted  

Gaslighting, whether intentional or not, is a form of manipulation and emotional abuse. It can happen in many types of relationships, but it is the most cruel, hurtful and devastating when it occurs in a relationship between a couple. If any of the following warning signs ring true, your partner may be gaslighting you. Take care of yourself by taking another look at your marriage or relationship, talking to a trusted friend, family member or counselor; and begin to think about changing the dynamic of your relationship or leaving it entirely. Signs that you are a victim of gaslighting include:

· You are constantly analyzing and second-guessing yourself.

· You no longer feel like the person you used to be.

· You constantly ask yourself, "Am I being too sensitive?"

· You often feel confused or like you’re going crazy.

· You always think it’s your fault when things go wrong

· You're always apologizing to people around you.

· You can't understand why you aren't happier.

· You withhold information from friends and family so you don't have to explain things.

· You know something is terribly wrong, but you can never quite put your finger on it.

· You start lying to avoid the put downs and reality twists.

· You have trouble making simple decisions.

· You feel hopeless, joyless, sad and depressed.

· You have frequent anxiety attacks when you never had them before.

· You feel as though you can't do anything right.

· You can’t joke with or around your partner.

· There is no humor in your life and you rarely laugh anymore.

· You are disappointed in yourself and who you have become.

· You wonder if you are a "good enough" spouse, partner, friend, employee, or child.

· You feel isolated from your family and friends

· You suddenly keep losing things or they end up where they’re not supposed to be.

· You wonder if you are who they say you are.

· You have more self-doubt and are less confident than you used to be

· You often question whether your response to your partner is appropriate

· You take little or no pleasure in the activities you used to enjoy