Gaslighting is a common form of manipulation that often occurs when one person tries to control another. It can show up in relationships, friendships, work, or even your doctor's office and is incredibly distressing for the victim because it can cause them to question their sanity.

Regardless of the culprit, if you're constantly being gaslit by someone, it won't just degrade your self-esteem. According to Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Nick Bognar, gaslighting can lead to anxiety, depression, and trauma long-term as well as jeopardize future relationships.

That's why it's so important to know how to respond to a gaslighter to protect your mental health from severe harm.

Here's how (and when) to respond to gaslighting, and how to rebuild your self confidence if you've been gaslit, according to therapists.