Abuse is some action by a trusted individual that causes physical or emotional harm to the victim. There are a number of different kinds of abuse including physical, financial and neglect.  Emotional abuse is another kind of abuse that we hear of but don’t think it happens.  People who commit emotional abuse tend to hurt their victims on a regular basis or even daily.

What is Emotional Abuse?    

Emotional abuse is when someone causes anguish, pain or distress to another person by what they say or do.

Emotional Abuse includes:

• insults
• threats
• intimidation
• humiliation
• harassment
• treating an elderly person like a child
• keeping someone away from their family/loved ones
• giving someone “silent treatment” or ignoring them

Signs of Emotional Abuse:

• Seems to be afraid of certain caregivers or family members
• Are yelled at by family members or caregivers
• Are chastised by family members or caregivers
• Are suddenly very agitated/short tempered
• Suddenly confused or more confused than usual
• Talks about being worthless or who are very depressed
• Have trouble sleeping or  seems to never get enough sleep
• Have a sudden change in appetite
• Have big changes in their weight (up or down)
• Seems quiet or stops talking suddenly
• Cries all the time or is distraught
• Talks about being helpless
• Seems scared to talk to you about their lives or their health
• Are angry all the time  

What you can do about Emotional Abuse:

Keep a close eye on your loved ones or client. Don’t be afraid to discuss a situation that might be considered emotional abuse.  Report any suspicions to the proper authority.

Encourage open communication as you are their sounding board and rely on you to help  them.

Treat your loved ones/client with respect and be kind to them. Always treat them the way you would like to be treated.