Domestic violence & abuse: How to get help? – My Choices Foundation

Domestic violence & abuse: How to get help?

Domestic violence is a violation of human rights. It is a consequence of minimising and discrediting the equal status of a woman in a patriarchal society. It can occur in any form – physical, sexual, verbal, psychological, economic, stalking, cyberstalking, or a combination of various forms of abuse. Recognising Domestic Violence and Abuse The first […]

Domestic violence is a violation of human rights. It is a consequence of minimising and discrediting the equal status of a woman in a patriarchal society. It can occur in any form – physical, sexual, verbal, psychological, economic, stalking, cyberstalking, or a combination of various forms of abuse.

Recognising Domestic Violence and Abuse

The first step to seeking help is to recognise the signs of abuse. Domestic violence can manifest in many forms. The most telling sign is fear of your partner. If you feel like you have to be on your guard around your partner—constantly watching what you say and do to avoid a blow-up—chances are your relationship is unhealthy and abusive.

If you believe that you are a victim of domestic violence, here are some signs you can look out for:

Being isolated from your family and friends.
Having bruises on you
Your movement, income and access to resources are being controlled.
Your online presence is being monitored.
Being pressured into engaging in sex.
Being belittled or being constantly being told that you are overreacting or are worthless.

Know more about the signs that you can look out for by reading this article.

Creating a Safety Plan

Leaving an abuser can be difficult. It is imperative to have a safety plan in place –

Consider calling a women’s shelter in advance for support. We operate a safe home where we provide emergency services for women in crisis. Call our helpline 1800 212 9131 for more information.
You can also confide in a close friend and request assistance during this difficult time. Ensure you reach out to only trustworthy friends and family who will not give away your location or contact information once you have left your partner.
Be sure of where you are going to go and how you will get there during an emergency.
Always keep your phone ready to use in an emergency with a minimum balance and sufficient battery charge. Store important numbers on speed dial.
Keep an emergency bag with important documents, money and clothes and hide it somewhere safe in case of a life-threatening situation at home.

Getting help and support

Domestic violence in any form is unacceptable. If you are being subjected to domestic violence or are in an abusive relationship please call- 1800 212 9131, if it is unsafe to call leave us a message on WhatsApp- 9333 40 4141. Free, confidential counselling and support are available through our helpline services via our team of expert counsellors.

Watch this video to know more about what happens when you call our toll free number –

My Choices Foundation

This post was authored by the My Choices Foundation communications team. Our mission is to keep you informed on the cause, and hopeful that transformation is possible one story at a time.

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