Helping Every Student Shine: How Schools Can Support Children with ADHD

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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in children, affecting attention, behavior, and self-control. An estimated 6 million children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023). While parents play a crucial role, schools are equally important in creating an environment where these children can thrive academically and socially.

1. Early Identification and Support

Teachers are often the first to notice signs of ADHD, such as difficulty staying focused, impulsive behavior, or struggles completing assignments. When concerns arise, schools can connect families with appropriate evaluations and resources. Early recognition allows for timely intervention, reducing frustration for both students and teachers (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2023).

2. Classroom Accommodations

Structured support helps children with ADHD reach their potential. Through 504 Plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), students may receive accommodations like:

  • Extended time on tests and assignments
  • Preferential seating close to the teacher
  • Frequent breaks to manage restlessness
  • Simplified, step-by-step instructions

These small changes can make a significant difference in learning and confidence (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP], 2019).

3. Positive Behavioral Strategies

Children with ADHD often face criticism for disruptive behavior. Instead, schools can promote positive reinforcement by acknowledging effort and progress rather than only pointing out mistakes. Reward systems, consistent routines, and visual cues support behavior management while building self-esteem (CDC, 2023).

4. Teacher Training and Awareness

Educators need the right tools to support diverse learners. Professional development on ADHD can help teachers understand classroom strategies, cultural considerations, and how to collaborate with parents and healthcare providers. Training also reduces stigma, ensuring students feel supported rather than singled out (NIMH, 2023).

5. Collaborative Partnerships

The best outcomes occur when schools, parents, and healthcare providers work as a team. Regular communication ensures consistency in expectations and strategies across home and school. Schools can also connect families with counselors, psychologists, or social workers who provide additional support (AAP, 2019).

6. Promoting Healthy Routines in School

Daily exercise breaks, mindfulness activities, and opportunities for hands-on learning can help students with ADHD stay engaged. Encouraging physical activity and reducing excessive screen time during the school day also support focus and self-regulation (Healthy People 2030, 2020).

The Bottom Line: Children with ADHD can thrive when schools provide structure, compassion, and collaboration. By implementing accommodations, training staff, and partnering with families, schools can empower students to learn with confidence and succeed inside and outside the classroom.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-2528

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Data and statistics about ADHD. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html

Healthy People 2030. (2020). Children with ADHD who get treatment. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

From Challenges to Strengths: Parenting Children with ADHD

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Parenting is never one-size-fits-all, and when raising a child with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it can feel even more challenging. ADHD affects about 6 million children in the United States, influencing their ability to focus, control impulses, and manage daily routines (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023). But with the right tools and strategies, parents can help their children succeed both at home and in school.

1. Learn About ADHD

Understanding ADHD is the first step. ADHD is not a result of bad behavior or poor parenting—it is a neurodevelopmental condition. By learning about the symptoms, treatment options, and how ADHD affects learning and emotions, parents can approach challenges with patience and empathy (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2023).

2. Build Structure and Routines

Children with ADHD thrive in predictable environments. Clear daily schedules—such as set times for homework, play, and bedtime—can reduce anxiety and help kids stay on track. Visual aids like charts or planners can serve as helpful reminders (CDC, 2023).

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Children with ADHD often hear more about what they are doing wrong than what they are doing right. To boost self-esteem and encourage good behavior, parents should celebrate small wins. Whether it’s finishing homework on time or remembering to brush their teeth, positive praise reinforces desired actions far better than punishment alone (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP], 2019).

4. Support Healthy Habits

Good sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity make a big difference in managing ADHD symptoms. Active play—like biking, dancing, or sports—can improve focus and reduce restlessness. Limiting screen time and ensuring consistent sleep routines also help children regulate their energy and emotions (NIMH, 2023).

5. Practice Open Communication

Listening is powerful. Encourage children to talk about how they feel and what strategies help them. Working together teaches them to advocate for their needs and builds trust. Family “check-ins” at the end of the day can be a safe space for kids to share frustrations or successes (Healthy People 2030, 2020).

6. Partner With Teachers and Professionals

Parents don’t have to face ADHD alone. Collaborating with teachers, school counselors, and healthcare providers ensures that children receive consistent support. This might include classroom accommodations, therapy, or medication when appropriate (AAP, 2019).

7. Take Care of Yourself, Too

Parenting a child with ADHD can be exhausting. Parents should remember that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Support groups, counseling, or even short breaks can help parents recharge and show up with patience and consistency (NIMH, 2023).

The Bottom Line: Children with ADHD can thrive when supported with structure, encouragement, and understanding. By combining healthy routines, positive communication, and teamwork with professionals, parents can help their children unlock their potential and build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-2528

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Data and statistics about ADHD. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html

Healthy People 2030. (2020). Children with ADHD who get treatment. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd

Healthy Habits at Home: Building Routines That Stick

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Families do best when there’s structure and the good news is, healthy routines don’t have to be complicated to make a real difference. Here in Alabama, where nearly 37% of adults are living with obesity, one of the highest rates in the country, simple changes at home, like cooking together or adding in more active family time, can go a long way in supporting better health for everyone (CDC, 2023).

When families eat together, they’re more likely to consume fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less likely to rely on fast food or processed meals (Healthy People 2030, 2020). Cooking together also teaches kids practical skills and encourages them to try new foods. Even swapping sugary drinks for water or preparing one homemade meal a few nights a week can make a difference.

Exercise doesn’t have to mean structured workouts. Walking at a local park, biking together, or turning chores into movement, like dancing while cleaning, keeps the whole family active. The CDC recommends children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, and adults aim for 150 minutes each week (CDC, 2022). Family-based activity is a fun way to meet those goals while also reducing stress and building connections.

Too much screen time has been linked to increased sedentary behavior and sleep problems in youth (CDC, 2023). By setting limits, families can open up more opportunities for outdoor play, reading, or games that spark creativity. Even 30 minutes of unplugged family time a day can help replace screens with healthier habits.

Healthy change starts small. This week, encourage your family to set one goal, like cooking dinner together twice or taking a 15-minute walk after school. Little steps add up, and before long, they can become lasting routines that help families in Birmingham and beyond thrive.

Call-to-Action: Pick one simple habit today. Whether it’s a new recipe, an evening walk, or a screen-free night, your family’s journey to better health starts at home, with one step at a time.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Physical activity basics. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Overweight and obesity data. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data

Healthy People 2030. (2020). Nutrition and healthy eating objectives. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Vaping and Our Youth: A Birmingham Reality Check

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Vaping might seem trendy, but for many teens in Birmingham and across Alabama, it’s turning into a real health concern. Those sweet flavors and flashy devices can make it look harmless, but the truth is vaping can quickly become an unhealthy habit with serious, long-term effects.

The Popular but Risky Choice

E-cigarettes are now the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth. In fact, more than 1.6 million middle and high school students report current use, and most prefer flavored products that mask the dangers (CDC, 2024). Here in Alabama, more than half of high school students had tried vaping by 2019, with nearly one in five actively using e-cigarettes (Protecting Taxpayers, 2019).

Why Teens Are at Higher Risk

Nicotine, the main addictive ingredient in vapes, affects developing brains differently. For teens, it can interfere with memory, learning, attention, mood, and impulse control—all critical during high school and college years (CDC, 2024). What may start as “just trying it out” can quickly turn into a powerful addiction.

More Than Just Vapor

The aerosol in e-cigs isn’t harmless water vapor. It can contain toxic metals, chemicals, and even flavorings like diacetyl, which has been linked to lung disease (CDC, 2025). Research also connects vaping with higher risks of asthma flare-ups, COPD, and heart problems later in life.

A Call to Action for Teens and Parents

Here’s the good news: most teens who vape say they want to quit—and many have already tried (CDC, 2024). That’s where parents, teachers, and community leaders can step in. By having open, judgment-free conversations, sharing trustworthy information, and pointing teens toward quit-lines or local health programs, we can support young people in making healthier choices and breaking free from vaping.

The Bottom Line

Vaping is not just a phase or a safer alternative—it’s a real threat to youth health in Birmingham and beyond. Together, families and communities can help teens break free from nicotine and choose healthier paths for the future.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, October 17). E-Cigarette use among youth. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/youth/index.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, January 31). Health effects of e-cigarettes. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/health-effects/index.htm

Protecting Taxpayers. (2019). Tobacco & vaping 101: Alabama. https://protectingtaxpayers.org

Tobacco Use and Its Long-Term Effects in Birmingham, Alabama

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Tobacco use is still a big health challenge in Alabama, especially in Birmingham and nearby communities. Even after years of awareness efforts, smoking continues to lead to serious health problems, early deaths, and heavy costs for families and the healthcare system. It doesn’t just impact people who smoke, secondhand smoke puts loved ones at risk too, making this an issue that touches entire families and communities.

Magnitude of the Problem

In Alabama, about 22.1% of adults are current cigarette smokers, compared to the national average of 14% (CDC, 2023). Youth smoking is also concerning, with approximately 12% of adolescents aged 12–17 reporting tobacco use. The long-term effects are staggering—tobacco use contributes to lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reproductive health problems (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).

The economic toll is equally severe. Each year, smoking-related illnesses cost Alabama $1.49 billion in healthcare expenditures and an additional $2.24 billion in lost productivity, much of which falls on Medicaid and taxpayer-supported systems (Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, 2024). Communities like Birmingham, with higher rates of poverty and limited access to care, shoulder a disproportionate share of these burdens.

Solutions

  • Prevention Programs: School- and community-based education campaigns can deter youth from starting tobacco use.
  • Cessation Support: Expanding access to quitlines, nicotine replacement therapies, and counseling improves quit success rates.
  • Policy Interventions: Increasing tobacco taxes, enforcing smoke-free laws, and restricting youth access to tobacco products are evidence-based strategies proven to reduce smoking rates (CDC, 2023).
  • Equity-Based Approaches: Targeted outreach in underserved Birmingham neighborhoods ensures that cessation support is accessible to those most affected.

What Individuals and Families Can Do

  • Know the Risks: Understand that smoking is linked to long-term illnesses that affect quality of life and lifespan.
  • Seek Help: Call the Alabama Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) for free counseling and resources.
  • Support Loved Ones: Encourage family and friends who smoke to take steps toward quitting, offering patience and accountability.
  • Promote Smoke-Free Spaces: Advocate for smoke-free homes, workplaces, and public spaces to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.

Conclusion

Tobacco use continues to exact a heavy toll on Birmingham residents, both in health outcomes and economic costs. Through education, prevention, policy change, and community action, Birmingham can reduce smoking rates and create a healthier future for all.

References

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. (2024). The toll of tobacco in Alabama. https://www.tobaccofreekids.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Smoking & tobacco use. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Tobacco use objectives. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Prostate Cancer: Protecting Men’s Health Through Early Detection

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Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, especially as they get older. The good news is that it’s very treatable when caught early, but many men put off screenings because of fear, stigma, or simply not knowing enough about them. By breaking down the stigma and encouraging regular check-ups, we can help more men catch prostate cancer early and save lives.

Magnitude of the Problem
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with more than 288,000 new cases and over 34,000 deaths reported annually (CDC, 2023). Black men face an even greater burden, experiencing higher incidence rates and nearly double the mortality rate compared to white men (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). While the exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, risk factors include age (50+), family history, and lifestyle behaviors. Without early detection, prostate cancer can progress silently, leading to advanced disease and fewer treatment options.

Solutions
Addressing prostate cancer requires a combination of medical, community, and policy strategies:

  • Screening and Early Detection: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams can detect cancer before symptoms appear. Shared decision-making between men and healthcare providers is essential.
  • Targeted Education: Culturally tailored education for high-risk groups, especially Black men, can help overcome mistrust and improve screening rates.
  • Policy Initiatives: Expanding access to preventive care under national goals such as Healthy People 2030 can reduce disparities in cancer outcomes (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).
  • Community-Based Programs: Faith-based and local organizations can host men’s health events to promote awareness and provide free or low-cost screenings.

What Men and Families Can Do

  • Know Your Risk: Men over 50—or over 45 for those at higher risk—should discuss screening options with their doctor.
  • Adopt Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco may lower overall cancer risk.
  • Encourage Conversations: Families and partners can help men feel more comfortable discussing health concerns.
  • Use Trusted Resources: Organizations like the CDC and American Cancer Society provide evidence-based guidance on prostate cancer prevention and care.

Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a leading threat to men’s health, but it doesn’t have to be. With early detection, informed choices, and strong community support, men can take proactive steps to protect their health and lives.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). What is prostate cancer? https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Cancer prevention and screening. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Maternal Mental Health: Breaking Barriers to Care

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Becoming a mom is life-changing, but it isn’t always easy. Many women experience postpartum depression, anxiety, or though less common postpartum psychosis after giving birth. These challenges are more common than most people realize, yet too often moms suffer in silence because of stigma, missed screenings, or not having access to care that feels supportive and culturally understanding. The truth is that untreated maternal mental health struggles don’t just affect moms, they can also impact babies and the whole family’s well-being (CDC, 2024).

Magnitude of the Problem

Approximately 20% of women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, yet fewer than half receive treatment (CDC, 2024). The consequences are profound: children of mothers with untreated depression may face developmental, behavioral, and emotional challenges. Maternal suicide, though often preventable, remains a leading cause of death in the first year after birth (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). Additionally, structural barriers, such as cost, lack of transportation, and limited provider availability disproportionately affect women in low-income and minority communities, compounding existing health disparities (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2023).

Solutions

  • Healthcare Integration: Universal screening for perinatal mental health disorders during prenatal visits, postpartum check-ups, and pediatric appointments can increase early detection.
  • Community-Based Programs: Local organizations can create safe spaces for peer support, parenting groups, and culturally sensitive counseling services that reduce stigma.
  • Policy & Systems Change: Expanding insurance coverage for maternal mental health services and investing in maternal health equity initiatives are essential steps. The Healthy People 2030 framework highlights reducing maternal morbidity and improving access to timely mental health care as national priorities (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).

What Families and Communities Can Do

  • Recognize Risk Factors: Women with a history of depression, limited social support, or stressful life events are at higher risk. Families should remain attentive to these signs.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Normalizing conversations about maternal mental health helps reduce stigma. Partners and relatives play a crucial role in encouraging women to seek care.
  • Leverage Resources: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-9-HELP4MOMS) and local health departments provide 24/7 confidential support.
  • Advocate Locally: Communities can advocate for expanded maternal mental health services at hospitals and clinics, especially in underserved areas.

Conclusion

Maternal mental health is a cornerstone of women’s health and family well-being. By addressing barriers to care, investing in culturally tailored services, and fostering supportive environments, we can create a future where every mother has the resources she needs to thrive.

References

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2023). Indicators of health disparities in the United States. https://bjs.ojp.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Depression among women. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/index.htm

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Maternal, infant, and child health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Why Men’s Health (Age 25–45) Matters in Alabama

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Men in their mid-20s to mid-40s are in peak working and parenting years, yet Alabama’s overall life expectancy is among the nation’s lowest (72.0 in 2021), signaling preventable health loss (CDC/NCHS). Among U.S. males 25–44, leading threats include unintentional injury, suicide, homicide, and heart disease. These conditions are largely preventable or manageable with timely care (CDC/NCHS). Alabama also faces high drug overdose mortality (31.5 per 100,000), and suicide among men continues to rise nationally, with firearms the leading method (CDC). Safety matters too: recent federal victimization data show changes in reporting and persistent risks for male victims of violence, underscoring the need for prevention and support.

Solutions that Work

  • Preventive care first. Annual checkups; blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening; vaccinations (flu, COVID-19, Tdap); and substance-use screening can catch problems early (CDC).
  • Injury and overdose prevention. Buckle up, don’t mix driving with alcohol or drugs, use protective gear at work/fitness, store medications and firearms safely, and keep naloxone if opioids are in the home (CDC).
  • Mental well-being. Normalize stress, depression, and anxiety screening; learn firearm-injury prevention and suicide risk signs; seek counseling or peer support (CDC).
  • Violence prevention. Engage in community programs, report victimization, and connect with services for survivors—approaches linked to safer communities (BJS).

What You Can Do This Month

  • Book a primary-care visit and ask for BP, cholesterol, diabetes, and mental-health screening (CDC).
  • Audit safety: seatbelts, helmets, ladder/work practices, and secure firearm storage (CDC).
  • Secure meds and add naloxone to your first-aid kit if anyone uses opioids (CDC).
  • Build a support team: a doctor, a counselor or chaplain, a workout buddy, and one friend you can call at any hour.
  • Know where to report and get help after a crime; encourage peers to report as well (BJS).
  • Strong bodies, steady minds, and safer communities are achievable; starting with small, consistent steps today.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a). Mortality in the United States, 2022 (Data Brief No. 492). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db492.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b). US state life tables, 2021 (NVSR 73[7]). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr73/nvsr73-07.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-a). Alabama — State data. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/states/alabama/al.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-b). Injuries and violence are leading causes of death (WISQARS). https://wisqars.cdc.gov/animated-leading-causes/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024c). Suicide mortality in the United States, 2002–2022 (Data Brief No. 509). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db509.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024d). PLACES: Prevention measure definitions. https://www.cdc.gov/places/measure-definitions/prevention.html

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2024). Criminal victimization, 2023 (NCVS). https://bjs.ojp.gov/document/cv23.pdf

Coping with Loss: Exploring Normal, Anticipatory, and Complicated Grief

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By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Intern

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Death is an inevitable part of life. Grieving a loved one can be challenging, taking years to recover from the loss. In my experience, the grieving process for a loved one is never truly over because I will always remember that person. “Grief most often gets less intense over time, but the sense of loss can last for decades. Certain events, mementos or memories can bring back strong emotions, that usually last for a short time” (National Cancer Institute [NCI], 2013). Grief feels like the process of accepting that the person is no longer alive. There are three types of grief: anticipatory grief, normal grief, and complicated grief (National Cancer Institute, 2013).

According to Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach, anticipatory grief is the act of grieving somebody who is still alive but, expected to pass away from sickness or other health complications (Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach, n.d.). From my experience with grief, I believe anticipatory grief is the hardest type of grief to go through. Before both of my grandmothers passed away due to sickness, I couldn’t get over the fact that one day, they wouldn’t be here anymore. Every time I spent time with either of them, I felt this lingering sadness that one day I would never get to see or talk to them again.

The NCI explains that normal grief occurs when an individual has acknowledged and accepted their loss and continues with their life, even though it may be difficult. Some common themes of normal grief include periods of sadness, disbelief, emotional numbness, anxiety, and distress. This can also lead to loss of sleep, hallucinations of the deceased, and loss of appetite (National Cancer Institute, 2013).

Complicated grief occurs when intense sadness/grief lasts longer than expected. According to the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT), complicated grief affects 2-3% of the population worldwide. Signs of complicated grief include constant thoughts about the deceased, avoiding reminders of the deceased, along with keeping reminders of deceased such as their pictures or belongings (ABCT, 2021). Complicated grief usually lasts 6 months or longer, depending on if the individual has social, cultural, or religious connections to the deceased (ABCT, 2021).

When experiencing one or more types of grief, I have adapted some suggestions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding what one can do who is experiencing grief:

  • Seek comfort and lean on the support of others in your network.
  • Create a positive and purposeful routine.
  • Honor your loved ones who have passed.
  • If necessary, get help from a professional.
  • If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

Have you experienced grief before? What are some of the emotions that you felt? What helped you to overcome one or more types of grief? Please feel free to share in the comments section or post an encouraging message at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References

Anticipatory Grief. (n.d.). Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach. https://med.stanford.edu/parkinsons/caregiver-corner/caregiving-topics/anticipatory-grief.html

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. (2023, May 26). Grief. https://www.cdc.gov/howrightnow/emotion/grief/index.html.

Complicated Grief | Fact Sheet. (2021, March 4). ABCT – Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. https://www.abct.org/fact-sheets/complicated-grief/

National Cancer Institute. (2013, March 6). Grief, Bereavement, and Coping With Loss. National Cancer Institute; cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/advanced-cancer/caregivers/planning/bereavement-pdq

Unseen but Unforgettable: The Lasting Effects of Emotional Abuse

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By Jaslyn Bush, UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Yan Krukau on Pexels.com

Emotional abuse is a form of mistreatment that can have profound and long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental health. Unlike physical abuse, emotional abuse can often go unnoticed, making it harder to detect and address. According to the American Psychological Association (APA) (2018), emotional abuse is defined as “a pattern of behavior in which one person deliberately and repeatedly subjects another to nonphysical acts that are detrimental to behavioral and affective functioning and overall mental well-being.”

Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, affecting self-esteem, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Emotional abuse involves behaviors that manipulate, degrade, or control another person through tactics such as belittling, humiliation, intimidation, and constant criticism (Graham-Kevan & Archer, 2008). It can occur in various relationships, including romantic partnerships, family dynamics, and workplaces. While emotional abuse does not leave visible scars like physical abuse, its effects are deeply ingrained and can often result in long-term psychological harm (Graham-Kevan & Archer, 2008).

One of the primary characteristics of emotional abuse is the erosion of the victim’s self-esteem. Abusers often use tactics like gaslighting—making the victim question their sense of reality—leading to confusion, self-doubt, and insecurity. Over time, the individual may begin to internalize negative messages, believing they are unworthy, inadequate, or incapable of achieving happiness or success (Swan & Snow, 2002).

Psychological Effects of Emotional Abuse

Victims of psychological abuse may often experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression because of ongoing stress and manipulation. A study by Lawrence et al. (2020) found that individuals who experienced emotional abuse were more likely to report higher levels of depression, anxiety, and self-harm behaviors compared to those who had not been abused. The lack of visible scars from emotional abuse can make it harder for others to recognize the trauma a person is undergoing, leaving individuals feeling isolated and unsupported.

Emotional abuse also disrupts an individual’s ability to form healthy relationships. Victims may struggle with trust issues, low self-worth, and an inability to set boundaries, which can affect their social interactions and lead to further isolation. This cycle of isolation and emotional turmoil perpetuates the abuse, making it even harder to escape from unhealthy dynamics (Graham-Kevan & Archer, 2008).

Emotional abuse is a silent yet devastating form of mistreatment that can have severe effects on mental health. Its impact is often long-lasting, affecting self-esteem, causing anxiety and depression, and hindering the ability to form healthy relationships. It’s important to realize that emotional abuse can happen within any type of relationship, not just romantic ones. Have you experienced emotional abuse? If so, are you willing to share your stories to support others who are living with emotional abuse? Feel free to share your thoughts below or interact with us on Facebook at the WilkinsonWellnessLab.

References

American Psychological Association. “APA Dictionary of Psychology.” Dictionary.apa.org, 19 Apr. 2018, dictionary.apa.org/emotional-abuse.

Graham-Kevan, N., & Archer, J. (2008). Emotional abuse in relationships: A study of its prevalence and impact. Journal of Family Violence, 23(8), 561-570. 

Lawrence, E., Yoon, M., & Langer, A. (2020). The psychological impact of emotional abuse: A review. Psychology of Violence, 10(4), 423-432. 

Swan, S. C., & Snow, D. L. (2002). A typology of women’s responses to abusive relationships. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 26(2), 128-138.