Gaslighting makes you doubt your own reality, memories, and feelings.

 

How Gaslighting Tricks the Brain Into Questioning Reality

Let me share something important with you. Have you ever had someone tell you, “That never happened” or “You’re too sensitive,” even though you knew deep down you were right? That’s gaslighting. And it’s one of the most confusing tricks people use — because it makes your own brain start doubting itself.

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What Gaslighting Really Means

The word “gaslighting” came from an old movie where a man kept dimming the lights in his house but told his wife she was imagining it. Over time, she began to believe she couldn’t trust her own mind.

In today’s world, gaslighting happens everywhere:

• In relationships (“You’re making things up.”)

• At work (“I never said that.”)

• In families (“Stop exaggerating — it wasn’t that bad.”)

• Even in politics, where whole groups are told, “That event never happened.”

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Why the Brain Falls for It

Here’s the thing: the human brain is built for connection. We want to trust people close to us — partners, parents, friends, bosses. So when they insist we’re wrong, our brain hesitates. It thinks, “Maybe they’re right. Maybe I really am overreacting.”

And slowly, little by little, you stop trusting yourself. That’s the real damage of gaslighting — not just the lies, but the self-doubt it plants inside you.

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The Global Face of Gaslighting

Gaslighting doesn’t belong to one country or culture. It shows up in every part of the world, just in different words:

• In some cultures it sounds like “Don’t be dramatic.”

• In others, “You’re imagining things.”

• Sometimes it’s even disguised as “advice” — “If you were stronger, this wouldn’t bother you.”

Different languages, same effect: it makes you question your own reality.

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How to Push Back

Here’s the good news: gaslighting works on doubt, but it weakens when you strengthen self-trust.

• Write things down. Keep a journal or notes so you know what really happened.

• Talk to someone safe. A trusted friend, mentor, or counselor can give you perspective.

• Pay attention to your body. If your stomach knots or your chest tightens, your feelings are valid.

• Set limits. It’s okay to walk away from circular conversations where you’re being made to doubt yourself.

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Prompts to Think About

• Have you ever walked away from a conversation wondering if you imagined things?

• In your culture, what phrases are often used to dismiss people’s feelings?

• How do you rebuild trust in yourself after being made to feel small?

• If someone younger than you came and said, “I think I’m being gaslit,” what advice would you give them?

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A Closing Word

Gaslighting is powerful because it makes you forget your own power. But remember this: your memories matter. Your feelings are real. Your perspective counts.

When someone tries to dim your light, don’t forget — the light is still there. And it’s brighter than they want you to believe.