Learning Grace While Recovering from Verbal Abuse

Navigating life and relationships after facing verbal abuse is different for everyone. The tools and strategies you use to recover may not be what someone else chooses. One common aspect of recovering from verbal abuse is grace. Recognizing and providing yourself grace as you learn to maintain healthy relationships is vital for your recovery. 

How Learning Grace Aids Healing from Verbal Abuse

I have been fortunate enough to have worked with some terrific mental health professionals throughout my healing journey. Although I have come so far, I still have a ways to go. Thankfully, I have adapted some ways to show myself grace as I learn to build a life with healthy relationships. 

Some methods I have used to extend grace include: 

1. Remembering that no one is perfect
2. Accepting that I will make mistakes 
3. Trying not to do everything 
4. Giving myself permission to rest
5. Being grateful for what I have 

One of the most challenging hurdles I have had to overcome while healing from verbal abuse is learning how to take time for myself. It took years of counseling and a lot of internal work to recognize the benefits of allowing rest and self-care. Unfortunately, the years of verbal abuse made it difficult for me to recognize how important I am and how vital it is to take time for myself. 

Extending Grace Is Unique for Everyone Facing Verbal Abuse

There is not one ideal way to show yourself grace that will work for everyone. For myself, I tried to keep it simple so that I wouldn't become overwhelmed with complex healing strategies. 

Even on days when you do mess up or try to do too much and fail, referring back to the five basic principles that I use can help you refocus. To help, I have Post-It notes at my desk to reiterate statements of grace where I see them each day and remember to reflect on them. 

If you struggle with self-worth after facing verbal abuse, learning how to extend grace to yourself can help you heal and move forward. It isn't a fix-all solution for building a life away from abuse, but grace can ensure that you show yourself the respect and love you deserve once and for all.