• The word "abuse" often conjures thoughts of physical violence, but emotional and verbal abuse can be just as damaging. People in emotionally abusive relationships may not have broken bones, bloody lips or bruises, but there are signs of emotional abuse that can indicate a problem. Don't overlook abuse just because it isn't physical; if you or someone you know is being abused, seek help.
  
  

Abuser symptoms

• An emotionally abusive parent, partner or friend typically displays certain behaviors that may indicate an unhealthy relationship. Some of these signs of emotional abuse include making threats of physical violence; threatening suicide; being unreasonably jealous, possessive or controlling; yelling, criticizing, belittling or trying to humiliate; and disregarding opinions, ideas, needs or accomplishments.
  
  

Victim symptoms

• People in abusive relationships may feel powerless, depressed or numb. They may fear their abusers and go out of their way to avoid angering them. Other signs of emotional abuse include feelings of worthlessness or even feeling responsibility for the verbal abuse.
  
  

Symptoms to watch for

• If you suspect that someone you know is in an unhealthy relationship, keep an eye out for symptoms such as increasing withdrawal from activities or isolation from friends and family; drug or alcohol abuse; mood swings; abrupt changes in personality and low self-esteem.