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Step 1
Consider whether your partner continually uses verbal tactics that cause you to feel degraded or worthless. You may be accused of being stupid, crazy or unworthy of him. Sometimes the abuser uses insults or unfounded accusations to keep you off-balance.
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Step 2
Be aware of your emotional state. Common signs of psychological abuse are depression, low self esteem, suicidal thoughts and anxiety. If you're experiencing some or all of these symptoms you should visit a professional in this field, such as a psychologist to determine the cause.
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Step 3
Evaluate your situation objectively and honestly. If you feel that certain aspects of your life, such as money, friends or ability to go where you want are being controlled, this is a warning sign. Other tactics that may be used by your partner to control your life are withholding access to things like money or the car.
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Step 4
Recognize signs of harassment being used as a tool of psychological abuse. Your spouse may call often throughout the day to make sure you're at home or work or insisting on an account of all of your time. You may be forced to live in fear by the use of violent threats, words or gestures. Often destruction of material belongings is used to act out physical violence.
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Step 5
Examine your relationship if you feel isolated from your friends or the world. This situation may be a product of active or inactive psychological abuse; your friends may be made to feel unwelcome or you may be forbidden to spend time with them. Often the abuser refuses to let the victim get a job or participate in other activities.
