Gaslighting and its effects on mental health

Liz Talago

Ariya J // Shutterstock

Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic that can cause people to question their perception of reality. Rula shares insights, signs and effects, and steps to recover from gaslighting.

Key insights

• Gaslighting is a form of abuse that can have a negative impact on mental health. It can cause people to question their sense of reality and increase their risk of anxiety, depression and trauma.

• Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic that someone uses to dominate and control another person. This toxic behavior can occur in all types of relationships where there is a power imbalance.

• If you think you are suffering from gaslighting, know that it is not your fault and help is available. Gaslighting can happen to anyone, and speaking to a mental health professional can help you recover.

Experts say the increasing use of the term “gaslighting” has helped raise awareness of the concept of psychological abuse. But at the same time, it's important to know what really “counts” as gaslighting behavior, since the term is used so often. At its core, gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that exploits isolation and a power imbalance. If it continues over time, it can become a form of abuse that can be damaging to a person's mental health.

So how can you protect yourself from gaslighting? By exploring the signs and how they appear in relationships, you can learn to recognize unhealthy dynamics, set boundaries, and maintain your sense of personal power.

What is gaslighting?

Today, gaslighting is understood as a manipulation tactic that often causes people to question their sense of reality and mental stability. The concept comes from a 1944 film called “Gaslight.” In the film, a husband secretly dims and brightens the lights in the house while convincing his wife that she is imagining it. This leads her to question whether she can trust her own perceptions. And it creates a destabilizing effect that gives her husband even more control over her.

As the film shows, gaslighting occurs when a person makes you question an experience that you otherwise know to be true. It is more likely to happen in isolation because it is easier for an abuser to manipulate someone when there is no one around to question them or confirm the other person's reality. This makes gaslighting common in domestic violence situations or other situations where people are isolated from their support systems.

Why would a person engage in this harmful behavior? Gaslighting is not always a conscious decision or a planned action. But whether intentional or not, it represents a desire to dominate and control someone for personal gain.

Eight common signs of gaslighting

Sometimes it can be difficult to recognize gaslighting because there is often no physical evidence of the behavior. But by familiarizing yourself with some common signs, you'll know when to ask for help.

You may be suffering from gaslighting if:

1. It seems like no matter what you do, the person always says that you are the cause of the problem or conflict.
2. It feels like you can't do anything right.
3. The other person quickly dismisses your concerns and you never feel validated or heard.
4. Your perception of things is always questioned and the person calls your interpretation of events “crazy” or unrealistic.
5. You have begun to question your ability to understand what is happening around you or your ability to remember information.
6. You always question yourself.
7. The person often interrupts you when you are speaking and discourages you from sharing your thoughts or needs.
8. You don't have anyone to talk to about your experiences, or you're worried that no one will believe you if you ask for support.

What are the effects of gaslighting?

Gaslighting can occur in all sorts of environments. It can impact romantic relationships and workplace dynamics. Being exposed to gaslighting once or even just a few times can be a disturbing experience. However, if it persists for long periods of time, it can have a negative impact on well-being in many ways.

Gaslighting can lead to:

• An eroded self-confidence
• A loss of the ability to socialize with others
• Decreased self-esteem
• Increased risk of anxiety and/or depression
• Psychological trauma
• Distrust of yourself and others

The most effective ways to recover from gas inflammation

If you think you've been gaslighted, remember that it's not your fault. It can happen to anyone and you deserve support. If you're feeling confused, anxious, or isolated, know that you can take steps to regain your self-confidence.

Collect evidence

Gaslighting can make you question your reality. So write down what you saw or experienced in a journal or on your phone. Be sure to include important details such as date, time, and other details. Keep these records safe.

Talk to someone

It may seem scary at first, but talking to someone about your experiences can make you feel less isolated and alone. This could be a trusted friend, family member, work colleague, or anyone who can validate and validate your experience.

Create a security plan

If gaslighting or other forms of abuse occur in your relationship, take steps to protect yourself. Consider practical aspects such as your ability to move. Also consider emotional concerns, such as dealing with conflicting feelings.

Engage in self-care

Gaslighting can affect your self-esteem. Therefore, it is important to practice self-compassion during recovery. Make time for any activities that help you feel strong, confident, and independent.

Talk to a therapist

Sometimes gaslighting can lead to ongoing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. A therapist can help you recover from psychological trauma, learn healthy coping strategies, set boundaries, and reconnect with the truth of your lived experience.