07/08/2024
Does “Gaslighting” really apply to politics??? Not so much.
Hear more about this on NEWSMAX.
What is Gaslighting?
Merriam-Webster defines gaslighting as “psychological manipulation of a person usually over an extended period of time that causes the victim to question the validity of their own thoughts, perception of reality, or memories and typically leads to confusion, loss of confidence and self-esteem, uncertainty of one’s emotional or mental stability, and a dependency on the perpetrator.”
Four behavioral patterns are common in gaslighting relationships:
🚩“Love-bombing”—an excessive shower of attention, which usually occurs at the start of a relationship
🚩 Progressively separating or isolating the victim from friends and family
🚩 Perpetrator unpredictability—the gaslighter unpredictably changes their behavior, often from one emotional extreme to another
🚩 Cold-shouldering—withholding or withdrawing affection and communication.
Getting out of a relationship where gaslighting is present can be challenging and sensitive.
Here are some steps you can consider:
1️⃣Recognize the Gaslighting: Understand and acknowledge that you are being gaslit. Gaslighting often involves manipulation and making you doubt your own perceptions and reality.
2️⃣Seek Support: Talk to someone you trust about what you are experiencing. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or counselor. Having support can provide validation and help you see things more clearly.
3️⃣Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries with the person who is gaslighting you. Clearly communicate what behaviors are not acceptable and what you will no longer tolerate.
4️⃣Prioritize Your Safety: If you feel physically unsafe or threatened in any way, prioritize your safety above all else. Consider reaching out to local resources or authorities for help.
5️⃣Plan Your Exit: Strategically plan how you will leave the relationship. This may involve gathering important documents, finding a safe place to stay, or seeking legal advice depending on your situation.
6️⃣Stay Grounded in Reality: Remind yourself of your own reality and trust your instincts. Gaslighting can make you doubt yourself, so it's important to reaffirm your own perceptions and feelings.
7️⃣Seek Professional Help: Consider seeking therapy or counseling to process your experiences and heal from the effects of gaslighting. A therapist can provide guidance and support tailored to your situation.
8️⃣Cut Off Contact: Once you have decided to end the relationship, consider cutting off contact with the person who is gaslighting you. This may be challenging, but it can be crucial for your well-being and recovery.
9️⃣Focus on Self-Care: Take care of yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically as you recover from the effects of gaslighting. Surround yourself with supportive people and engage in activities that bring you peace and joy.
Ending a relationship where gaslighting is present can be emotionally draining, so be patient with yourself throughout the process. Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.
If you or someone you know is considering su***de, please contact the 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org