Are Your Friends Gaslighting You?
Have you ever had a conversation with a friend and walked away feeling confused, unsure of yourself, or even a little crazy? If so, you might be experiencing gaslighting. It's a painful and insidious form of manipulation that can leave you questioning your own sanity.
I've had countless clients confide in me about the subtle yet devastating effects of gaslighting within their friendships. It's heartbreaking to hear how these trusted relationships have become battlegrounds for one person's control.
What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where someone consistently denies or distorts your reality. They may lie, deny things they said or did, or attempt to make you doubt your own memory and perception. The goal is to erode your confidence and make you dependent on them.
Common Gaslighting Tactics:
Denial: "I never said that."
Blame-shifting: "You're too sensitive."
Trivialization: "It's not a big deal."
Isolation: "No one else believes you."
Contradiction: "You said the opposite yesterday."
Recognizing Gaslighting: It's essential to trust your instincts. If you consistently feel confused, undervalued, or like you're walking on eggshells, it's time to pay attention. Other signs include:
Difficulty making decisions
Feeling like you're going crazy
Apologizing excessively
Loss of self-esteem
What to Do When You Think You're Being Gaslighted:
Trust Your Gut: Your feelings are valid. Don't dismiss your intuition.
Document Everything: Keep a journal of incidents, dates, and details. This can be helpful if you need to confront the situation or seek support.
Seek Support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about what you're experiencing.
Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate your needs and limits. Let the gaslighter know that their behavior is unacceptable.
Consider Reducing Contact: If the gaslighting continues, it might be necessary to distance yourself from the toxic relationship.
Remember, you deserve to feel safe, respected, and valued in your friendships. If you're experiencing gaslighting, you're not alone. It's a courageous step to recognize what's happening and take steps to protect yourself.
You are strong, capable, and deserving of healthy relationships. Let's reclaim your power and rebuild your trust in yourself.
