- 1). Look into your past and think back to the days before the verbal abuse, when you had hobbies, friends or other pastimes that made you happy. Renew friendships, take up the old hobby or find a new activity that brings you joy.
- 2). Listen to your self-talk. If your brain is full of negative thinking or if you constantly berate yourself for not doing things perfectly, re-train your thoughts and frequently remind yourself of positive traits you possess. Focus on what you can do well and forgive yourself for being human and lacking perfection. No one is perfect and consciously training your mind to linger on positive thoughts, words and deeds has a cumulative and uplifting effect on your demeanor.
- 3). Relax and allow yourself to laugh, feel contentment or satisfaction in life. (see ref 1) Everyone experiences hills and valleys in her life, but realize you are in a safe place now and will no longer tolerate abuse in any form.
- 4). Join a support group for victims of verbal abuse or connect with one online. Talking with others about your feelings, struggles and past experiences with the abuse is effective in finding closure. It provides you with new ways to cope with establishing boundaries and becoming a well-rounded individual who does not tolerate abusive behavior.
- 5). Read books and articles about the effects of verbal abuse and the long-term psychological effects. The information is often helpful in setting new goals and gives you tips on the recovery and healing process from the verbal abuse.
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