Mental health experts are advocating for greater public recognition of emotional abuse, identifying it as a significant factor in mental health crises and suicide. Community psychologist Nozipho Mojapelo described this non-physical violence as a silent epidemic, frequently masked as affection within modern dating culture. She explained that such abuse involves persistent criticism, humiliation, and manipulative tactics like gaslighting, which systematically dismantle a person's self-worth.
Mojapelo warned that these behaviors, often rooted in unresolved personal trauma, are mistakenly interpreted as love or discipline. The consequences include severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. She urged communities to stop dismissing such conduct as simple relationship drama and to avoid normalizing destructive actions.
She advised individuals experiencing abuse to pursue support through counseling or trusted confidants. Mojapelo also emphasized the importance of understanding a potential partner's background and conflict-resolution methods, stating that love should be a source of safety rather than fear.
Mojapelo warned that these behaviors, often rooted in unresolved personal trauma, are mistakenly interpreted as love or discipline. The consequences include severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. She urged communities to stop dismissing such conduct as simple relationship drama and to avoid normalizing destructive actions.
She advised individuals experiencing abuse to pursue support through counseling or trusted confidants. Mojapelo also emphasized the importance of understanding a potential partner's background and conflict-resolution methods, stating that love should be a source of safety rather than fear.
