((((hugs)))) <--- only if ok with you.

it's definitely abuse. i'm so sorry you went through that! i don't have any "sagely advice" or wisdom for you. i just want you to know that i read your post, i feel for you, and i hope you get things worked out. i know it's a long road to walk dealing with these issues, but it is worth it. also, i'm sorry your family is so invalidating and harsh that makes it much harder, i know.

take care, and welcome to psychcentral!

angela (sc)

-comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable-