Today we understand better than before how language can subtly influence mental health. Gaslighting tactics which invalidate people’s emotions represent harmful behaviours that create permanent emotional damage. Respectful communication establishes trust and understanding between people while nurturing empathy. This article illustrates the differences between everyday words used in gaslighting and polite words used in respectful interactions to demonstrate how simple vocabulary changes significantly influence our communication and mental protection.
| Gaslighting | Respectful phrasing |
| “You’re being dramatic, this isn’t a big issue.” | “I understand this is important to you. I want to listen to your perspective.” |
| “You’re just being too sensitive.” | “I can see that this affects you deeply, and I want to understand how you’re feeling.” |
| “That’s not what happened. You’re imagining things.” | “I think we may have different perspectives on this. Let’s take a moment to discuss what happened so I can better understand where you’re coming from.” |
| “You’re remembering it wrong.” | “Let’s go over the details together and see if we have different perspectives.” |
| “You’re too emotional to think clearly right now.” | “I see that you’re feeling overwhelmed. Let’s take a step back and revisit this when you feel ready.” |
| “You always make things up in your head.” | “I see that you feel strongly about this. Let’s explore why it’s important to you.” |
| “I never said that. You’re just too emotional.” | “I see that this conversation upset you. I can understand how you might have interpreted what I said that way. Let’s take a moment to clarify what I meant.” |
| “Why are you making this a bigger issue than it is?” | “I see that this situation means a lot to you. Let’s find a solution together.” |
Words possess incredible power because they can support or damage wellbeing and provide healing or cause harm. Our use of respectful and empathetic language generates spaces where people experience being valued and acknowledged. Minor adjustments to our communication style possess tremendous potential to transform our relationships and impact our personal well-being. We must understand that the words we choose can either build trust and connection or inflict emotional damage. Through dedicated effort we can establish conversations that prioritise understanding and respect between people.
Diana Marin Digital 