Abuse
For those who have suffered the pain of abuse, it can be difficult to confide in those close due to unwanted feelings and shame. Carrying the memories and emotions can be a heavy burden and can make life unbearable.
Abuse counsellors can provide you with a safe, non-judgemental environment, for you to explore and manage the emotions and scars left behind. They will also provide coping strategies for nightmares and flashbacks, which keep the memory alive.
This journey can be a difficult one, but with consistency and the support from your therapist, you will be empowered, allowing you to move on and live your life.
What is Abuse?
There are many different forms of abuse, and it is important to know when it is happening to you. Abuse is a threat, act, or a physical force used to create control, fear and intimidation.
An abuser will use humiliation, intimidation, blame and physical violence in order to make you adhere to their style of living.
Domestic Abuse
An abuser will use abusive tactics to maintain power and control. These tactics can escalate over time, becoming more dangerous.
Emotional Abuse
This can be described as power or control where the abuser uses words and actions to make the abused feel "bad" about what they have done as well as about themselves. This method of abuse can create low self-esteem and self-worth in the abused.
Childhood Sexual Abuse
Sexual Abuse is the contact between and adult and child. This power is used to gain control over the child, usually involving a betrayal of trust.
There are different types of sexual abuse, such as physical contact or touching offenses.
Further Reading on Abuse
- ‘The Survivor’s Guide: To Recovery from Rape and Sexual Abuse’ (2005) by Robert Kelly, Fay Maxted, Elizabeth Campbell.
- ‘Overcoming Childhood Trauma: A Self Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques’ (2000) by Dr. Helen Kennerley
- Victim Support