It is not uncommon to not recognize that we are/have been abused. We realize that something is wrong but it can be hard to determine exactly what the issue is or where it stems from. We can rationalize abuses as being our own fault, bad luck, or any other false creation our mind can conjure up. Until we come to terms with what has or is happening, we cannot begin to heal. If you are suffering or know someone who is exhibiting the signs or symptoms of abuse, please take the time to address the issue and get the help you/they need.
Based on the severity of the abuse, these signs and symptoms may last only a few days or they could have an effect for many years. Everyone heals and deals with abuse differently; some may hide their scars better than others. You are not expected to manage this pain alone and often professional help is necessary.
Signs and Symptoms include:
- confusion
- nightmares
- uncertainty
- hypervigilance
- suspiciousness
- intrusive images
- blaming someone
- poor problem solving
- poor abstract thinking
- poor attention / decisions
- poor concentration memory
- disorientation of time or place
- heightened or lowered alertness
- difficulty identifying objects or people
- increased or decreased awareness of surroundings
*Behavioral
- withdrawal
- antisocial acts
- inability to rest
- intensified pacing
- decreased activity
- erratic movements
- change in social activity
- change in speech patterns
- loss or increase of appetite
- hyperalert to environment
- increased alcohol consumption
- change in usual communications
*Emotional
- fear
- guilt
- grief
- panic
- denial
- anxiety
- agitation
- irritability
- depression
- intense anger
- apprehension
- emotional shock
- emotional outbursts
- feeling overwhelmed
- loss of emotional control
- inappropriate emotional response
*Physical
- chills
- thirst
- fatigue
- nausea
- fainting
- twitches
- vomiting
- dizziness
- weakness
- chest pain
- headaches
- elevated BP
- rapid heart rate
- muscle tremors
- shock symptoms
- grinding of teeth
- visual difficulties
- profuse sweating
- weight loss or gain
- difficulty breathing
* Cited from Mental Health Partners Colorado.
Healing is not a linear, straightforward science. Congratulations on taking the first step by beginning to learn what abuse is and how it may relate to you. Use the resources available on this site and find the help that is best for you. Feel free to reach out. Continue moving forward but don’t expect the problem to be solved tomorrow. Long-term abuse takes a long time to heal and we are here to help!
