The most obvious potential side-effect of emotional abuse is that it often escalates into physical violence.  When the abuser finds that he/she is not achieving a sufficient level of control (or whatever it is they are seeking, but most often it is control) through verbal and mental abuse, they will more than likely turn to physical violence to achieve it.  That is why it is very important to recognize and eliminate an abusive situation as soon as possible.

The second major side-effect of emotional abuse is the effect it has on the psyche and self-esteem of the person upon whom it has been inflicted.  Serious, long-ranging effects stem from emotional abuse.  Emotional and mental issues can arise immediately, or they may not manifest themselves for weeks, months, or years to come.  Often times, these effects can be seen in physical abuse perpetrated by the victim years down the road.

Another side-effect of emotional abuse is the effect it has on those people around you.  If you have children living in the household, and you are a victim of verbal abuse, they will consciously, or subconsciously, pick up on those habits, and perceive them as normal.  They will then go on to exhibit abusive behavior in their relationships down the road.

So, abuse doesn't have to physical.  Emotional abuse can be as dangerous, and in some cases, even more dangerous than physical abuse.  If you or someone you know is a victim of emotional abuse, seek help immediately.  Check with local organizations, churches, non-profit crisis centers, family, friends, or anyone else you feel you can trust to help you.  It's never too late to get help.