Divorce is a challenging time for anyone, but it can be especially difficult when your spouse is gaslighting you. Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where one person manipulates another into questioning their own reality.
If you think that gaslighting is happening to you during your divorce, it can be difficult to know what to do.
Recognizing gaslighting
Gaslighting can be hard to recognize, especially if you have been in a long-term relationship. Some signs of gaslighting include constant denial of the facts, manipulation of your emotions and an attempt to make you feel like you are crazy. Your spouse may try to isolate you from friends and family, control your access to money and resources and create a sense of dependency on them. It is essential to recognize these signs and seek help if you suspect that you are being gaslit.
Protecting yourself
If you surmise that your spouse may be gaslighting you, it is important to take steps to protect yourself. One of the most critical things you can do is to keep a record of any gaslighting incidents. This can include text messages, emails and notes from conversations. Having this documentation can be helpful if you need to seek the help of a therapist or lawyer.
Another important step is to establish a support system. Reach out to trusted family members and friends who can help you during this difficult time. Consider seeing a therapist who can provide you with the tools needed to cope with gaslighting and other types of emotional exploitation. It is also crucial to educate yourself. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to recognize and handle the situation.
With the right tools and resources, you can get through this challenge and emerge stronger on the other side.