Domestic violence can occur in many forms and can affect people of any age. If someone is hurting you it can be very scary and it may be hard to know how you can stop it. It is important to remember that no one has the right to be violent towards you and there are people out there who can help. Unfortunately 1 in 4 women in Australia experience Domestic Violence in their life, and 1 in 4 children are exposed to Domestic Violence.
Some of the forms Domestic Violence might take are –
Physical – If someone is hurting you, then you should take some action. Some forms of physical violence include shaking, slapping, pushing, throwing things at you, damaging your property, or hurting or killing your pets.
Emotional – this form of abuse is often unrecognised. This can be making threats, putting you down, emotional blackmail, speaking in a way that is frightening.
Economic – controlling your money, keeping you financially dependent, and asking you for money unreasonably.
Social – keeping you isolated from family and friends, insulting you in front of friends, controlling what you do and where you go
Spiritual – not be allowed to have your own opinions on religion, cultural beliefs and values.
You need to keep yourself safe, and ways to do this can be –
- Talk to someone you trust – friend, social worker, counsellor
- Do you need to move?
- Talk to the police
- Believe in yourself, no one has the right to hurt you.
- Know your rights.
There are many phone numbers you can call for help. Here are some of the most important.
Emergency – 000
Police – 131 444
Domestic Violence Crisis Centre – 1300 782 200
RMFL Chaplain Jim Freak - 85325260
