Gaslighting is a form of emotional manipulation where a person makes you question your reality, memories, or perceptions. This tactic often leaves you feeling confused, anxious, and doubting your sanity. It’s subtle, insidious, and deeply erodes your self-confidence and sense of self.

What Does Gaslighting Look Like in a Relationship?

In a romantic relationship, gaslighting can manifest in various ways, including:

1. Denial of Facts: Your partner may deny things they’ve said or done, even when you clearly remember them. This constant denial can make you question your own memory.

2. Twisting the Truth: They might distort or spin the truth to make you feel like the one at fault. This might involve exaggerating your behaviour or downplaying their own actions.

3. Playing the Victim: Gaslighters often turn the tables, making you feel guilty for their misdeeds. They may accuse you of being too sensitive, paranoid, or unreasonable.

4. Isolation: To strengthen their control, they might isolate you from friends and family, convincing you that others are out to harm or deceive you.

5. Emotional Manipulation: Your feelings and reactions are dismissed or ridiculed. You might hear phrases like, “You’re overreacting” or “You’re imagining things,” which can make you question your emotions.

Coping with Gaslighting: Steps to Reclaim Your Power

Dealing with gaslighting is challenging, but it’s possible to regain control and protect your mental well-being:

1. Trust Your Intuition: If something feels off, it likely is. Trust your instincts, and don’t let your partner’s manipulation make you doubt yourself.

2. Keep a Record: Document conversations, events, and instances where you feel gaslit. This will help you maintain clarity and provide evidence if needed.

3. Set Boundaries: Communicate what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour. Don’t be afraid to enforce these boundaries firmly.

4. Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide objective perspectives and emotional support.

5. Consider Your Options: If gaslighting persists despite your efforts to address it, it might be time to reevaluate the relationship. Your mental health and well-being should always be a priority.

Take Control of Your Life

If you’re dealing with gaslighting in your relationship, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. My program, Arise, empowers women like you to reclaim their power, recognise toxic behaviours, and build the loving, supportive relationships they deserve. 

Apply for Arise Now

Don’t let gaslighting steal your joy and peace. It’s time to stand strong, reclaim your reality, and step into the love and happiness you were born to experience.

Remember, sister, you were born to be happy.