Domestic Violence is Not Just Physical
It can happen to anyone!
Domestic or family abuse is rampant, yet we often trivialize or deny that it is happening. This is especially true when the abuse is psychological. One may not see the impact of emotional abuse on the outside, but it can still leave deep and lasting scars. But whether it is physical or psychological, it is used for one purpose and one purpose only – to gain control.
Abusers don’t play fair since they use anything at their disposal to get that control, i.e. fear, guilt, shame, and blame. But it is important to remember that responsibility for family violence belongs to the abuser. It is not the victim’s fault!
Men can be victims, too . Women are not the only victims of domestic violence. Men also suffer from this type of abuse, and quite often it is verbal and/or emotional abuse. Yet, most men are not willing to admit that they are being abused because of the shame attached to it.
18 Signs That You Are In An Abusive Relationship
Are you:
- afraid of your partner much of the time?
- often publicly humiliated by your partner?
- reluctant to allow your family and friends to see what is happening?
- avoiding certain topics out of fear of angering your partner?
- feeling that you can’t do anything right for your partner?
- blaming yourself for his/her abusive words and actions?
- feeling helpless with no hope?
Take the 1st Step
Domestic violence is a crime and the police take cases of domestic abuse very seriously. Always call 911 in an emergency .
And More…
Your partner:
- threatens to take your children away or harm them?
- threatens to commit suicide if you leave?
- constantly checks up on you?
- controls where you go or what you do?
- keeps you from seeing your friends or family?
- limits your access to money, the phone, or the car?
- forces you to have sex?
- has a bad and unpredictable temper?
- hurts you, or threatens to hurt or kill you?
- destroys your belongings?
- is jealous and possessive?
The danger is real. So make sure you can spot the signs .
If you are controlling or have a controlling partner, don’t ignore these behaviors. They are destructive and dangerous. If the abuse continues without outside help, the abusing partner may risk being arrested, going to jail, or losing the relationship.
Everyone has the right to feel safe in a relationship. With help, people who are abusive can learn to be non-violent, so learn the warning signs. Don’t wait until you and the ones you love get hurt. You Are Not Alone . Consider getting help.
Here are some important resources available to you:
Kelowna Family Violence Resources Compiled by Kelowna Divorce
Help Starts Here. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, read this.
Is Someone You Know Being Abused? Do you know the warning signs?
Are You Experiencing Abuse? Do you know how to protect yourself?
Are You Being Abused? Do you need a safe place to go?
If you need to speak with someone immediately, don’t hesitate to call us at 250.707.0928 . You may also wish to book a private consultation.
About Kelowna Divorce Mediation Services
We are not expensive lawyers; we are family divorce mediators
. Our boutique divorce mediation firm has become Kelowna’s first choice when dealing with separation and divorce. It is possible to reduce
stress
,
time
and
conflict
. Our mediation model educates and empowers our clients, so that when you leave you have a document that is guaranteed to stand the test of time.
