Domestic violence refers to a pattern of behaviour in which one person in an intimate relationship (such as a spouse, partner, or family member) seeks to control or dominate the other through physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological abuse. If you or someone you know is being abused, it’s important to recognize the signs and understand that help is available.
TYPES OF ABUSE THAT OCCURS OFTEN
- Physical Abuse
- Emotional/Psychological Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Economic Abuse
- Verbal Abuse
SIGNS THAT MIGHT YOU BE IN AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP
An abusive relationship is a relationship where one person seeks to control, manipulate, or harm the other person, whether emotionally, physically, sexually, or psychologically. Abuse in a relationship can happen in many forms and often occurs in cycles, where the abuser may show kindness or remorse between abusive episodes, which can make it harder for the victim to leave.
- Feeling fearful of your partner or family member’s reaction
- Feeling like you are “walking on eggshells” to avoid conflict or punishment
- Constantly apologizing or trying to fix things to prevent anger or violence
- Feeling isolated, like you have no control over your life or choices
- Experiencing a drastic change in your behaviour, such as withdrawing from family and friends
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN ABUSED?
If you are in an abusive situation, getting help is crucial. Some steps to consider:
- Reach out to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or counsellor
- Contact a domestic violence helpline or organization. There are many resources available that can offer support, guidance, and protection.
- Create a safety plan in case you need to leave quickly. This can include having a place to go, a bag with essentials, and important phone numbers.
- Contact law enforcement if you feel in immediate danger or need protection.
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