Overusing our voice is the most common cause of voice sickness. And when a voice with a range of words or behaviours is used to manipulate, intimidate, and maintain power over someone, it is known as 'verbal abuse'.

Verbal abuse may be worse than physical injuries. The danger is in the unseen emotional damage to others. The psychological effects of verbal abuse include fear and anxiety, depression and stress, disturbing memories, and frightening responses. It may even lead to self-harm and assaultive behaviours.

Verbal abuse is a type of harassment and mistreatment that happens in relationships, families, and friendships. Many underprivileged and domestic helping hands in our region suffer from verbal abuse daily, which is not any less destructive than other domestic abuses. Unfortunately, these oral and emotional abuses are usually overlooked.

Extravagant voices are made of a low-quality pitch with a loudness that differs depending on an individual's age, gender, or cultural background. In short, this interpersonal violence mainly hurts and unnerves the victim.

Controlling our tongue is about verbal control. As voice is an inherent part of the human experience, speaking softly and less goes beyond stress reduction and improved communication. It enables building a much stronger core for the entire family and the community. When the voice of the righteous speaks wisdom, his/her tongue talks of justice with softness.

Speaking softly and little has additional benefits: it makes it easier to confirm facts instead of based on authority and loudness. That is why it is said that he who knows does not speak, he who speaks does not know.

E-mail: rubaiulmurshed@shomman.org