Have you ever had severe, extensive abuse in your past ?

So degrading, so insidious, sadistic etc... that you now feel you are not even a human being? Like you are a 'thing'? Like you somehow, (even though it wasn't your fault per se) don't deserve regular things, other normal people do? And that you are less, and tainted?
Anyone relate to those thoughts? If so, did you ever surpass these notions, or heal and overcome them?

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Jenny1234 · 56-60, F

To an extent, yes, but I know people have endured way worse than I did even though it was very bad what I went through.

I was in a very abusive relationship when I was young. It was definitely degrading and insidious. For quite a while after I left, I felt like I didn’t deserve anything good in my life because his words of torment stayed with me for a long time.

But time healed much of it plus I think the type of personality I have also helped in my healing. Also, Because it was the only abuse I’ve ever experienced and I was around 19, it was easier to get passed it because I had already experienced a great life prior to that so I knew I could have that again.

Baybreeze · 41-45, F

@Jenny1234 I am sorry you went through that. :( How did you 'un' identify with the degradation?

Jenny1234 · 56-60, F

@Baybreeze it took time and there were several factors I think that contributed to my healing. Definitely going to college and then working full time helped a lot. Probably the most. It got me out of the house every day and in an environment where I was surrounded by good people and my mind was kept occupied. Really helped boost my self esteem! Exercising was next in line. It’s so good for your mental health. It sucks getting started but boy it feels great afterwards. You feel really good about yourself when you exercise regularly. Doesn’t have to be hitting a gym or anything. Could be dancing, walking, swimming, anything that you enjoy. So I swam a lot and walked a lot.