They make us feel that we deserve to be treated as we are and that we are lucky to be with them. They are masters at manipulating how we feel. ("20 Warning Signs of an Emotionally Abusive Relationship." Powerofpositivity. Np, nd Web. May 11, 2017.) Emotional abuse hurts your confidence and self-esteem, the stress of an emotionally abusive relationship can manifest in the form of illness, depression and even long-term emotional trauma. Emotional abuse damages your confidence and self-esteem, the stress of an emotionally abusive relationship can manifest in the form of illness, depression and even long-term emotional trauma. ("20 Warning Signs of an Emotionally Abusive Relationship." Powerofpositivity. Np, nd Web. May 11, 2017.) The other factor that makes emotional abuse so devastating is the greater likelihood that victims will blame themselves. If you notice someone being emotionally abused, there are ways to address it.