How to Deal with Verbally Abusive Relationships

I’ve got a new puppy! And so I begin this show by sharing some really practical tips I’ve learned for how to get to sleep when insomnia dogs you (pun intended.) Because why do I have insomnia? Turns out a 7-week-old puppy really can’t make it through the night without waking everyone up a few times. But we’re almost through this phase! And on to our main segment… Long ago, I was in a verbally abusive relationship. As time dripped by, I became so used to being called names, being bullied and picked on, I came to expect it. And so I stayed far longer than I should. I finally woke up because I read the bestselling book by this show’s remarkable guest, Patricia Evans. She is the author of the landmark book, The Verbally Abusive Relationship. In talking to Patricia, I uncovered some real gems about how to know you’re in such a relationship, and what to do about it. Among other things, I learned: What ‘verbal abuse’ actually means How to respond What’s wrong with the verbal abuser that makes them act this way What is actually possible in such a relationship? Can they change? Or can you? Strategies for working with verbal abusers to build a more healthy dynamic I know this will strike a chord with some of you… and perhaps give others something to consider. As ever, I offer this work with love. Your friend, RESOURCES How to Overcome Insomnia When You’re Too Stressed Out Suzanne’s Facebook Group—The Self-Care Group for Extremely Busy Women Suzanne’s book, Surrendering to Joy Patricia Evan’s site How to Know ‘Read This First’ questionnaire Patricia’s landmark book The Verbally Abusive Relationship, 3rd Edition MORE ABOUT PATRICIA Patricia Evans is the author of the landmark classic book, The Verbally Abusive Relationship. She has appeared on Oprah, CNN and News Talk and her books on verbal abuse are published internationally.