Look out for these common gaslighting phrases

Gaslighting is a process that might not be that obvious right away. It happens over a long time and involves telling a partner, friend, employee, and so on a false version of a story, where the other party manipulates conversations to minimize their feelings. Present in the most damaging and unhealthy relationships, one is often told that they're imagining things, or that they’re overly dramatic or emotional.

If you're beginning to wonder if you're a victim of gaslighting, there are some common gaslighting phrases that you will want to pay attention to. Check them out in the following slides.

"I did that because I was trying to help you."

This is a manipulative way to make a person feel guilty for getting angry about a certain action or set of words. The other person begins to self-doubt and to question their own interpretation.

"That's not what happened."

A gaslighter will change the version of a story to whatever they want it to be. Then, they'll persuade you that you're the wrong one or that you have a faulty memory.

"That is hardly important."

Gaslighters will try to trivialize your concerns or suggestions, which is another way to devalue a person.

"That's not what I meant."

If you confront a gaslighter about something hurtful they said, they'll deny it was even said or change their meaning. This causes a lot of self-doubt.

"It's not that big of a deal."

Another way to downplay your feelings is to state that the situation isn't that big of a deal.

"You're making that up."

This phrase basically means that you're being accused of lying. Any of your words will be used against you and could even cause shame.

"How dare you accuse me of that!"

This is a harsher way of saying you're paranoid. It turns the accusation back on you, which could lead to shame and even with you apologizing.

"You always blow things out of proportion."

Anytime "always" is used in a statement, it's an exaggeration.

"Don't worry about it right now."

This phrase is meant to put off a conversation and not give you the time to express yourself.

"You're not perfect, either."

As if you expect them to be perfect. This is a way to deflect the behavior back on you.

"You have no clue."

This statement is an effort by the gaslighter to shut down the conversation, especially if they're feeling threatened.

"Let's forgive and forget."

This phrase shuts down the conversation and makes you feel guilty if you can't forgive and forget. It's also making the assumption that you need forgiveness, too.

"This is how you treat me after everything I've done for you?"

This is another phrase to deflect their bad behavior back onto you. Plus, it makes it sound like they're the victim.

"I think you need counseling."

This is a way to invalidate your thoughts and feelings. Basically, the gaslighter tries to make it sound like your feelings aren't normal.

Sources:  (Parade) (Good Housekeeping)