1. Neutral Acknowledgment
- “I understand this is hard for you to hear.”
- “I know this is uncomfortable, and that’s okay.”
(This acknowledges their feelings without invalidating yours.)
2. State Your Boundary
- “I cannot continue this conversation if my safety and experience are dismissed.”
- “I need to focus on protecting myself and my healing right now.”
- “I will not discuss this with someone who refuses to take it seriously.”
3. Redirect to Support
- “I’m speaking with professionals who can help me stay safe.”
- “I need to talk with people who understand and support me.”
4. Limit Engagement
- If they continue to deny, block, or minimise: step away.
- You don’t owe explanations, justifications, or debate.
- Protecting your energy and safety is priority #1.
5. Internal Validation
- Repeat to yourself: My experience is real. My fear was valid. Their denial does not change the danger or my healing.
- Ground yourself with your breathing, body awareness, or safe space practices if anxiety spikes.
Example Phrases You Can Use Verbally or in Text
- “I hear you, but I need to focus on my safety right now.”
- “I cannot continue this discussion unless my experience is taken seriously.”
- “I’m seeking help from professionals; I don’t need debate or denial.”
- “I respect your perspective, but it is different from my reality.”
💡 Tip: Keep these phrases short and simple. Repeat as needed. Do not justify or argue, because minimisers often try to trap you into defending yourself.
