DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

SYMPTOMS

Indications That You’re Experiencing Domestic Violence

There are many indications of domestic violence. However, fear and distress of your partner is the most obvious. If you are often cautious around them—always minding what you do or say to avoid a fight—your relationship may be abusive, toxic, and unhealthy. 

Other indications are when your partner or anyone downgrades you or tries to have control over you. This also includes feelings of hopelessness, powerlessness, and self-hatred. 

At first, it may not be easy to recognize domestic violence. But, as time goes by and the abuse gets worse, you may clearly identify it.  

You may experience domestic violence if you’re with someone who:

• Puts you down
• Insults you
• Discourages or stops you from going to school, work, or seeing friends and family members
• Tries to control where you go, what you wear, and how you spend your money
• Threatens to inform family, friends, or other relatives of your sexual orientation
• Slaps, kicks, or hits you
• Blaming you for her/his abusive behavior
• Threatens you with weapons
• Gets irritated or angry when using drugs or taking alcohol
• Acts possessive or jealous 

If you experience any of these in your relationship, talk to someone or get professional help.

DIAGNOSIS

Anybody can suffer or become a victim of domestic abuse. A child, family member, or any relative can be. Moreover, domestic violence usually intensifies from criticism, threats, to abuse. Although physical injury might cause the most apparent risk, the psychological and emotional effects of domestic violence are also extreme. 

Furthermore, being emotionally stressed with abusive relationships can harm your self-esteem, leading to depression and anxiety, and can make you feel unprotected and weak. No one must experience this type of pain—and the first move to escape is being aware that your relationship is cold-hearted or abusive.