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Healing from Domestic Abuse: Reclaiming Your Self-Worth

Asked by Noreen, Sargodha · 3 June 2026 at 6:51 pm PKT

Experiencing abuse can deeply damage your sense of self, making you feel worthless and alone. This page offers guidance on understanding the impact of domestic violence and steps you can take to heal and reclaim your inherent value.

After years of being shouted at and shoved by my husband I have started to believe I really am worthless. How do I stop hating myself for the things he does?

It sounds incredibly painful to be going through this, and it's completely understandable that you've started to feel this way. What you are experiencing – being shouted at and shoved – is not normal, and it is certainly not something you deserve. The feelings of worthlessness and self-hatred you describe are a common and heartbreaking response when someone is treated with such unkindness over a long period.

It's important to understand that these feelings are not a reflection of who you truly are, but rather a consequence of the way your husband is treating you. When someone repeatedly demeans another person, it can slowly erode their sense of self-worth. His actions and words are about him, not about any failing on your part. You are not responsible for his behaviour.

To begin to untangle yourself from these painful feelings, try to remind yourself, even for a moment, that his anger and actions are his choice and his responsibility. You might gently challenge those thoughts of worthlessness when they arise, remembering that you deserve kindness and respect. Finding a safe space, even just in your own mind, where you can acknowledge that what is happening to you is wrong, can be a small but powerful step.

You don't have to carry this burden alone. It can be incredibly helpful and healing to talk about what you're going through with someone you trust, or with a professional who can offer support in confidence. Remember that Zara is here to talk, and there are people who care and want to help you find your way back to feeling valued and strong.

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Answered by the Depression.pk team
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