I'm truly sorry to hear about the painful experiences you've had with your mother. Emotional abuse, especially when it comes from a parent, can have long-lasting effects on a person's emotional well-being and self-esteem. However, with time, self-care, and potentially seeking professional help, it is possible to heal and find a sense of peace and well-being.
Here are some steps that might help you in your healing process:
Recognize the Abuse: Acknowledge that what you experienced was abuse and that you were not to blame for it. Understanding the reality of the situation is essential in starting your healing journey.
Seek Support: Consider reaching out to friends, family members, or support groups who can provide a safe and empathetic space for you to share your feelings and experiences.
Professional Help: A qualified therapist or counselor can be instrumental in helping you work through the emotional impact of the abuse and develop healthy coping strategies.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with your mother to protect yourself from further harm. This may involve limiting or cutting off contact if necessary for your well-being.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be gentle and patient with yourself as you navigate your healing process. Healing from emotional abuse takes time, and it's okay to take things one step at a time.
Focus on Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This could include exercise, mindfulness practices, creative pursuits, or spending time with supportive people.
Challenge Negative Self-Perceptions: Emotional abuse can leave lasting negative beliefs about oneself. Work on recognizing and challenging these beliefs, replacing them with more positive and realistic perspectives.
Limit Exposure to Negativity: If your mother's public negativity is affecting your well-being, consider limiting your exposure to it. This might involve avoiding social media or other platforms where she spreads lies or negativity.
Find Healthy Outlets: Express your feelings and emotions in healthy ways, such as through journaling, art, or talking to a trusted confidant.
Educate Yourself: Learn about emotional abuse, narcissism, and related topics to better understand your experiences and the effects of the abuse.
Remember that healing is a gradual process, and it's okay to seek help from others to support you along the way. It might be challenging, but with time and effort, you can find a sense of peace and healing. If you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions or thoughts, consider seeking professional help to guide you through this journey of healing. You deserve to live a life free from the burden of emotional abuse and negativity.