Does abuse affect people differently?

The effects of abuse vary depending on the type, length, and severity of the abuse. It can also vary based on the person that was abused. Different people have different reactions. Some people may come through abuse with very little effects at all, but most have mental scars and possibly physical scars as well.

What does physical abuse do to your body?

Researchers have learned that a number of health issues can stem from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse that people experience at any point in their life. Such health issues include obesity, arthritis, mood and personality disorders, heart disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Does being abused cause mental health problems?

However, being abused does make it much more likely that one or more psychological or medical illnesses will occur. Victimized people commonly develop emotional or psychological problems secondary to their abuse, including anxiety disorders and various forms

Does abusive abuse cause depression?

Abuse can be a very strong factor contributing to their development, however. Developing a psychological disorder, being abused does not mean you will develop depression. Abuse is a why someone might become depressed.

How does it feel to be a victim of sexual abuse?

If you’re a victim of abuse, you feel ashamed. You’ve been humiliated and your self-esteem and confidence have been undermined. You hide the abuse from people close to you, often to protect the reputation of the abuser and because of your own shame.

Why do victims of domestic abuse hope their abusers will change?

The abuse itself is experienced as an emotional rejection with the threat of being abandoned. This triggers feelings of shame and fears of both more abuse and abandonment in the victim, which are then relieved during the honeymoon phase. Then victims hope the abuser will change. After all, there are good times between episodes of abuse.