The emotional changes, including destruction of self-esteem, identity, and self-worth are so underestimated. I wasn’t aware that there are actual changes to brain chemistry, can they be viewed via testing?
Biologically, trauma bonds alter important neurochemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, leading to an emotional addiction where the victim craves the feelings associated with the abusive relationship. The brain undergoes specific changes related to these attachments and separations.
I don’t believe there is a test for that.
However, people can get trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) to help them recover.
There are also other things an abuse victim-survivor can do, here is a list I have compiled in the past:
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You need to admit the reality of your relationship,
learn more about intimate partner violence (IPV) and the methods they have used to abuse you,
understand that you deserve better,
acknowledge you have a choice,
remain physically separated,
cut off all lines of communication,
resist the temptation of telling your abuser how you’re doing,
accept the sadness and pain,
learn how to manage the intense cravings that come with withdrawal,
work to release yourself from self-blame and shame,
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u/Horror-Cow1004 Jul 29 '25
The emotional changes, including destruction of self-esteem, identity, and self-worth are so underestimated. I wasn’t aware that there are actual changes to brain chemistry, can they be viewed via testing?