Gaslighting occurs when the abuser denies that an event ever took place or manipulates the other by causing them to think their own reality is distorted and like they know best. 

Emotional abuse can lead the survivor to feel disempowered, isolated and traumatised. 

Perpetrators use a wide range of hidden tactics to maintain control and brainwash their victim, presenting insults as a joke, gaslighting, and also alternating between being kind to their partner and treating them in a derogatory way, making the person dependent on a continuous cycle of ups and downs and complete emotional confusion.  

Abusers use manipulation and brainwashing presenting insults as jokes and different versions of events. They can threaten the person using their vulnerabilities to their own advantage such as threatening to call immigration or getting them sectioned if they are being treated for a psychiatric illness. 

If you’re experiencing emotional or any type of abuse, please call 0161 660 7999 or email referrals@manchesterwomensaid.org. Please always dial 999 if you’re in immediate danger.