Emotional abuse can be one of the hardest forms of abuse to recognize. It can be very subtle and happen in what may seem like a gradual way. It can also be obvious and happen suddenly.

Either way, its consequences are very real and can be just as severe, or more severe, than other forms of abuse.

Emotional abuse can be especially tricky to identify and break out of within sports since pain, compliance, and coachability is often celebrated.

There is a difference between tough coaching and abuse, though.

Insults, embarrassment, and control are not needed to create a successful athlete.

You do not need to be punished to succeed.

No matter your performance, you deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and to be in control of the choices you make.