Physical & Emotional Abuse Support Group
Abuse is a general term for the treatment of someone that causes some kind of harm (to the abused person, to the abusers themselves, or to someone else) that is unlawful or wrongful. No one deserves abuse, period. Abuse can be emotional, physical, or sexual.
I have a history of dysfunctional relationships. As a result, I have been slow to pick up on warning signs in dealing with men and women. But I am proud that I am now seeing the signs and taking haste to get the hell out of dodge. Nonetheless, I realize that because of the finesse of some vultures, it is sometimes hard to see the wolves dressed in sheeps' clothing. And I can't always keep my guard up and/or hide my vulnerabilities. So here is what I need to know. How will I know if a man is not a vampire/predator seeking to suck the life out of me and control me?
The question I ask myself is : ""How do I feel in his/ her presence?". I know immediately now, how I feel. And this is my truth. I dated someone who was like your description. I just ignored that first feeling about him.
Our bodies never lie when it comes to being around another person. But we must listen and be aware of the signals our bodies send us.
I would strongly suggest that before you get into another relationship, including friends, that you get into counseling with a therapist who has additional training in recovery from trauma, abuse and PTSD.
It's really hard to trust yourself after we have been with an abuser. We need time to heal and time alone will not heal that kind of trauma.
And that's why I suggest not getting into a relationship/friendship until you have had some therapy. Therapy should not only help you begin to heal, but it should also help you to learn to love yourself and trust your inner knowing above all others. It should also teach you how to listen to yourself and set and keep healthy boundaries.
~healing hugs~