Signs you are in an abusive relationship
When thinking of abusive relationships, people often assume black eyes and injuries.
Abusive relationships can be physical, emotional or both. There does not have to be violence for a relationship to be abusive.
Both men and women can be victims of abusive relationships. Abuse towards men tends to be under reported.
Abusers are often attentive and charming at the outset of the relationship and the victim often thinks that they have found their perfect partner.
Many people caught up in abusive relationships do not realise that their relationship is abusive until they feel trapped and physically and/or emotionally hurt.
It can be very difficult to accept that somebody who you love is abusing you. However, it is important to identify potential signs you are in an abusive relationship and escape the relationship. Abuse can affect your self-esteem and leave you feeling helpless.
Here are some signs to look for that indicate you, a family member or friend may be in an abusive relationship.
Your partner:
- wants commitment very early on in the relationship
- tries to humiliate or embarrass you;
- puts you down or insults you;
- shows unreasonable jealousy and wanting to know where you are all the time and constantly calling or texting you when you are not with them;
- makes everything seem your fault;
- isolates you from family and friends and alienating them;
- controls your money;
- threatens to commit suicide if you leave them;
- has unpredictable moods;
- withdraws affection;
- threatens you with violence
- controls/bans/stalks your use of social media
Next Steps
The first step is to know you are not alone in any situation, there are people who can help. There are a number of domestic abuse agencies who are on hand to assist. There are also advice helplines and initiatives that can help in a confidential and discrete manner.
If you are worried that you or somebody that you care about could be in an abusive relationship, our team of Family Law experts are here to help you to obtain the relevant legal protection. Please get in touch by clicking here for a call back or message us your enquiry.
If there is a risk of immediate danger you should contact the police and thereafter take legal advice.