Ruth Buckland Counselling Bromley, Kent

Domestic abuse are often overlooked, excused and even denied. This is especially true when the abuse is psychological rather that physical. The nature of living with domestic violence and abuse can leave you feeling frightened, intimidated, confused and worn down which, in turn, can lead to depression, anxiety and helplessness. Over time it can chip away at your self-esteem and you may even feel you have lost your identity..

Domestic abuse/violence can happen to anyone, women and men, it does not discriminate. It happens among heterosexual couples and in same-sex partnerships. It can happen between siblings, and with their parents. It can happen between other combinations of the family too. It occurs within all age ranges, ethnic backgrounds and economic levels.

Domestic abuse often escalates from threats and verbal abuse to violence and, whilst physical injury may be the most obvious danger, the emotional and psychological consequences of domestic abuse are extremely severe. Domestic violence and abuse are used for one purpose and that is to gain power and maintain control over you. The abuser chooses to behave in this manner and does not ‘play fair’. Abusers are excellent at controlling and manipulating their victims. This behaviour creates an unhealthy relationship which thrives on fear, isolation, intimidation, humiliation, blame, shame and guilt.

I would never try to list all the signs or symptoms of domestic abuse, nor will I try to categorise them as often they cross over the various abuses: However below are some of the common warning signs that can identify if it is happening to you, a family member or a friend.

Hurt you physically in any way

Being frightened to say ‘no’ or voice your opinion

Humiliate you or make you feel worthless

Monitor what you’re doing all the time and where you go

Prevent or discourage you from going out or going to work

Isolate you from family and friends

Force you to do things you don't want to do (including sexual acts)

Control or withhold your money

Threaten to hurt or kill you, your children, your family, even pets

Sabotage your job or hobbies

Blame you for his/her violent outburst

Accuse you regularly of being unfaithful

Physical violence is often said to be the easiest to identify but approximately only 10% of domestic abuse involves violence. So we are aware that many abusive relationships involve no physical violence. As you can see from the warning signs above, emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse are all abusive and these methods are no less destructive with many victims/survivors saying the long term impact is more severe.

I will not tell you to leave the relationship nor will I tell you to stay. There will be no judgement of you in anyway. I will offer you a confidential, safe place to discuss your experiences and look at your choices for a more positive way forward.

If you think that you could be experiencing any of the above or are just confused about a relationship then please contact me by phone on 07715 933 824 or click here to email me to discuss whether I can help you.

There is a voicemail facility so please feel free to leave a message and I will return your call as soon as possible if it is safe for you to do so.

If you are in imminent danger, please call the police on 999

Other useful contacts:
Bromley and Croydon's Womens Aid - click here
National Centre for Domestic Violence - click here
National Domestic Abuse Helpline - click here