We often hear the word abuse—what does it really mean? It’s treating someone with cruelty or violence, often repeatedly.

But let’s reflect on what we’re doing to ourselves. Using insulting language and tearing down someone’s confidence is a form of abuse. What kind of treatment are we giving ourselves? How do we talk to ourselves? Do we speak with kindness and understanding? How often do we blame ourselves when things don’t go well? How frequently do we tell ourselves we aren’t good enough?

Neglect is one of the most common types of abuse, especially for children. Are we neglecting our own needs? Taking care of our body and mind through exercise, self-care, and meditation is essential. Are you making time for these, or are you neglecting them?

Excessive use of substances that harm yourself or others is also a form of abuse—this includes cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. But it doesn’t stop there; take a closer look at your diet as well. Consuming unhealthy food, like junk, deep-fried, processed items, or too much sugar, can damage our body. Could this be a form of self-abuse? Lack of proper rest, sleep, and overuse of screens that exhaust the mind also count as abuse.

Abuse is a serious offense with consequences for those who commit it. If that’s the case, shouldn’t we also be responsible for the harm we cause ourselves? It’s time to stop abusing yourself. 

What small changes can you make today to stop self-abuse and begin self-care?