Gaslighting has been a buzz word for a while now, but what is it, exactly? According to the Cleveland Clinic, gaslighting is “emotional manipulation and insensitivity to your feelings.” Signs that you’re experience gaslighting include doubting your feelings; questioning your judgement; feeling vulnerable, insecure, alone, disappointed in yourself, confused; second-guessing yourself; and wondering what’s wrong with you, to name a few. These feelings are normal in moderation, but if it’s the same person always making you feel that way, it’s time to evaluate your relationship.
One of the first things you can do to put an end to gaslighting is to set clear, healthy boundaries with the person gaslighting you to give yourself space physically and emotionally. For example, this could mean not talking to them if they raise their voice. Following through and enforcing those boundaries shows you’re serious. Try talking to friends or family for outside perspectives. This can help you clarify if you’re experiencing gaslighting, and remind you that you aren’t making things up. Therapy and talking things over with a counselor can help, as they can assist you in identifying gaslighting.
