While every relationship has its challenges, some of our relationships can be mentally and emotionally draining. But this might not be due to random disagreements or issues that arise from time to time as common in most relationships. Sometimes, it’s entirely the fault and intention of someone else.
Gaslighting is a form of manipulation, often performed with malicious intent. Though there are varying degrees of gaslighting, most of these attempts are designed to make a person question themselves, their thoughts, or reality itself.
But can someone tell if gaslighting techniques are being used? The following may help to understand more about how the process unfolds.
Common Gaslighting Phrases
The trick to figuring out if someone is attempting to gaslight another person is by listening closely to the phrases they use in conversation – particularly when being confronted. A few of these phrases include:
- “If I really said that, then it was a joke.”
- “You’re just being paranoid.”
- “You hurt me on purpose.”
- “I’m not the only one. All your friends think you’re crazy too.”
- “You know that’s not what I meant.”
All of the phrases used have one thing in common – to redirect and make someone else question themselves or the information they think they know. And it can go much further as well.
Protecting Yourself From Gaslighting
It’s not uncommon for someone who’s being gaslit to have a feeling that something is just not right. And this instinct is usually spot on in these circumstances. But a few key things to remember in order to keep from being gaslit are:
- Speak to others about the situation
- Don’t argue
- Trust yourself
- Focus on actions – not on words
- Separate yourself from the abuser
Toxicity such as this is more common in close romantic relationships. But they can also happen in friendships and platonic relationships as well. The key is to pay attention to the actions of the other person – and this will be a clear indicator when someone is attempting gaslighting.
Ellie Mental Health is a mental health service provider operating nationwide that takes a unique approach to mental health. This includes helping patients to deal with manipulation such as gaslighting, and other issues along with making treatment feel beneficial to all walks of life.
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