| So you made it out of your emotionally abusive | | | | plenty of sleep, eat healthy meals, drink a lot of |
| relationship. You are free of the put downs, the | | | | water, take supplements and vitamins as needed (a |
| criticisms, and the control. Unfortunately for many | | | | food based multi and fish oil are a good start. A |
| people in this situation, the residual effects of the | | | | naturopath can help you come up with the ideal |
| emotional abuse leaves the victim feeling down about | | | | supplement menu). Exercise regularly, focusing on |
| him or herself, feeling incapable, and even questioning | | | | cardiovascular exercise, which helps release |
| his or her perceptions of reality. This leaves the | | | | endorphins and elevate mood. Do small things for |
| recovering victim vulnerable to "relapsing" and | | | | yourself each day that you enjoy to send yourself |
| returning to the abuser out of insecurity and a desire | | | | the message that you are worth the effort. |
| to believe that he or she is changed and things will be | | | | 3. Focus on honing and heeding your instinctual |
| better next time. Unfortunately, without intervention, | | | | responses. When you are with an emotional abuser, |
| this is rarely the case. Here are 3 strategies to | | | | your self preserving instincts to keep yourself |
| support you when you're tempted to return to | | | | emotionally safe often have to be suppressed |
| something you know in your heart is not good for | | | | because they are chronically activated. Now that you |
| you: | | | | are safe, it is time to get back in touch with the |
| 1. Gather your support network close around you. | | | | impulses you feel when you interact with others. |
| Now it is critical that you have social and emotional | | | | Note how your body reacts as far as adrenaline, |
| support. Your friends, family, and counselor can | | | | tension, or feelings in the pit of your stomach when |
| remind you of what happened and why it is | | | | you interact with certain people. Notice how some |
| important for you to stay strong. They can also fill | | | | people bring your reactions of peace and calm, |
| your schedule and help ease the lonely feelings that | | | | whereas others cause anxiety, agitation, or even |
| make it more tempting to contact your abusive ex. | | | | fear. Move away from negative interactions and |
| 2. Take good care of yourself mentally and physically. | | | | toward relationships that give you positive feelings. |
| This means making your well being a priority. Get | | | | |