Neglect is a form of emotional abuse that can have an incredibly negative impact on a person’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. As neglect can make us feel alone, invisible and unworthy in our relationships, it can form in any type of relationship and involves one party not caring for the needs or feelings of the other. In essence, those who are experiencing neglect are likely to end up with poorer health due to being emotionally weakened by the abandonment and lack of care.
Neglect is ultimately an act of intentional denial, where someone takes something away that would improve another person’s life. This isn’t always an overt act, such as an abuser telling someone they don’t have the right to pursue a certain course of action, but is instead more often passive ,as evidenced in not providing timely attention and care. In time, a passive neglectful environment can be just as damaging.
When someone experiences neglect, it affects the victim on multiple levels, both mentally and physically. Neglect can cause people to feel extreme loneliness and disconnectedness, even when surrounded by people, which can lead to thoughts of worthlessness and other serious psychological issues. A neglectful environment also weakens a person from the inside, as their faith in themselves and their ability to trust others diminishes. Additionally, messages are sent to our subconscious that we don't matter enough to be taken care of, which can create further insecurity and depression.
On the physiological level, neglect can lead to an increased risk of becoming ill, both because of the increased stress levels and decreased immunity levels caused by loneliness and depression. This may present itself in various ways, such as recurring colds and flu, chronic fatigue, digestive issues, headaches, skin conditions and anxiety. In addition, lack of self-care, such as proper nutrition or sleep, can lead to further physical deterioration.
Furthermore, neglect can lead to unhealthy coping strategies arising with the aim to fill the void created by the absence of support. For instance, a person may become an unhealthy workaholic, develop an addiction to drugs, alcohol, gambling and/or shopping, or engage in dangerous activities such as jumping out of airplanes.
The person receiving neglect may then continue to feel unsupported, and an unbearable cycle begins. As neglect is often subtle, it can be difficult to recognize it and take proactive steps to protect oneself and break the cycle.
Fortunately, there are some practical steps to help combat the effects of neglect and improve overall wellbeing. The first is to practice self-care, a positive form of self-love. This can include getting adequate sleep, eating nutritious foods, doing physical exercise, taking breaks and having fun. Decreasing stress levels can also help, as can limiting the amount of time spent with toxic people who are nothing but sources of negativity and exhaust energy. Furthermore, seeking external support from friends or authority figures can be extremly beneficial in restoring a sense of positivity and community.
The most important step is to identify and understand the signs of neglect and to begin to look after one’s own needs. If a person does not believe that their needs should be fully taken into account and honored, they will remain at risk of further feelings of abandonment and neglect. Instead, it is essential to speak up, respect and affirm your own needs, and to cultivate relationships based on trust and mutual compassion. In this way it is possible to break the neglection cycle, restore our self-confidence, and reclaim good health and happiness.
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