How to Break Free from the Threat of Domestic Abuse
Domestic violence is the scourge of modern day society. Yet victims are reluctant to come forward for many different reasons, including their overall reliance on the perpetrator and their wish to stay out of the spotlight. If you're in this position, you do need to understand that the situation is likely to continue until you take some action, no matter how difficult this may be. How should you gather your thoughts together before you talk to the authorities?
Help Is at Hand
Make no mistake, the law is there to protect you and will provide you with a lot of support when you finally come forward. Domestic violence can take many different forms, and you need to understand how you have been affected so you can look for relief.
Psychological and Emotional Despair
To begin with, you may have suffered psychologically as the perpetrator, who is often a domestic partner, may threaten to take any children and move beyond your reach. They may also try to convince you that YOU are in the wrong and that people won't believe you if you report the situation.
As you try to deal with their psychological threats, you can also suffer from emotional abuse. You may notice considerable swings in behaviour and mood changes that will have you on edge most of the time.
Verbal Intimidation
The old proverb says that 'words will never hurt you', but this is far from the truth. You will know how hurtful verbal abuse can be, especially if this person likes to humiliate you in front of other people.
Social Isolation
You may feel as if you are a prisoner in your own home, if you are denied access to others or your friends are discouraged from visiting the house. Your acquaintances may stay away in any case, as the perpetrator is so rude to them whenever they make an approach.
Financial Difficulties
Almost inevitably, finances will be tight in this type of scenario. This means that you may be suffering financially, especially if the other person is using part of the living allowance for substance abuse of some kind.
Physical Abuse
Finally, there is the worst type of abuse involving sexual or physical intimidation. While he or she may not hit you very much, their actions can nevertheless cause you physical harm, especially if you become deprived of sleep over the long term.
Time for Action
When things get out of hand, you really should talk with the authorities so that the police can investigate the situation. If they can't take action for some reason, you should definitely consult a solicitor so they can start civil proceedings.