Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which a person or group makes someone question their reality, memories, or perceptions. The term comes from the 1944 movie "Gaslight," in which a husband manipulates his wife into thinking she's going insane by dimming the gas lights in their home and denying that he's doing so. This article will discuss how to seek help against gaslighting.
Sprout Family Clinics offers telehealth and online therapy sessions for various issues like anxiety therapy, couples, children, and family counseling. We have seasoned and skilled therapists on our team to help individuals heal and grow in life. Keep reading this blog to learn more about gaslighting and when to ask for help against it.
How To Identify Gaslighting?
Recent research shows that only nineteen percent of Americans are aware of gaslighting. This alarming figure proves that many people don't realize when they are being gaslighted. Hence, they don't know when and how to ask for help against it. Let's learn some signs of gaslighting.
● Withholding Emotions: When someone is refusing to listen to your concerns or emotions. For example, saying that they don't have time or invalidating your concerns.
● Countering The Victim: The abuser may question your memory or deny the event and its details. For example, telling the victim that they don't have the correct information regarding an event.
● Denying Or Forgetting: This may occur when someone discredits your memory to avoid taking responsibility. For example, going back against their promises.
● Diverting Or Blocking An Issue: Changing the subject to withdraw attention from an event. The gaslighter may question the victim's credibility as well. For example, claiming that someone is pouting false ideas in the victim's head.
● Trivializing An Important Issue: It involves blaming the victim for overreaction or making them believe their emotions are excessive and invalid. For example, claiming that a joke was funny when it was actually hurtful.
How To Ask For Help Against Gaslighting
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to reach out to a mental health professional or a therapist for support. A therapist or counselor can help you understand what's happening and develop strategies for dealing with the gaslighting. A therapist can also educate the victim about gaslighting and help them recognize the signs of gaslighting behavior. This can help the victim avoid being manipulated in the future.
Sprout Family Clinics Help Individuals Against Gaslighting And Abusive Practices
Our therapists are experts in relationship counseling, online therapy for depression, and various other issues. We use advanced treatments, strategies, and tools to help individuals deal with abusive practices.
Our therapists work with victims to develop coping strategies that can help them deal with gaslighting. This involves strategies for maintaining perspective, setting boundaries, and developing self-care practices. Feel free to contact us for more information.