Abusive relationships
The legal definition of domestic abuse has broadened to include coercive control, and behaviours by the abuser that, until fairly recently, was either not discussed, or was considered acceptable within a relationship. Abuse can take many forms:
- Physical abuse
- Psychological and emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse
- Spiritual abuse
- Other forms of control
Abuse can exist in all kinds of relationships.
If you feel trapped in a toxic relationship, you may feel powerless, and ashamed that you feel unable to escape. If you are in physical danger, then you need to seek help to remove yourself and other vulnerable people as safely as possible.
If in immediate danger, call 999. If you are on a mobile phone and unable to speak freely, you can press 55.
This will connect you to the police with call handler who can ask questions you can answer simply. More information on what to do is available on the Gov.uk website, including helpful contacts.
The organisation Refuge is also a great support- 0808 2000 247.
Many people, however, are stuck in a relationship where the abuser uses more subtle methods to coerce and control the other person. This can result in complete confusion and self-doubt, and a feeling of helplessness, as if there is no way out.
With support from therapy, you can learn to understand what is happening for you more clearly, and to build your confidence in your ability to make choices and take actions for your wellbeing.
As a survivor of domestic abuse, once you have removed from the relationship, you have to live with the aftershock, and work to heal yourself. Therapy can be a powerful tool in your healing.
Contact me in confidence on Telephone no 01243 942666 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
