Understanding Family Violence

Family violence is a widespread issue that affects people of all backgrounds, cultures, and communities. It occurs when one person in a relationship tries to dominate or control the other, using violence, intimidation, or manipulation.

This article will help you understand what Family violence can look like, the various forms it can take, and what you can do to protect yourself or assist others in need.

Your Right to Healthy and Respectful Relationships

Every individual has the right to be treated with respect in their relationships, whether with a partner, family member, or friend. Healthy relationships are built on mutual care, understanding, and equal participation in decision-making.

Abuse has no place in a healthy relationship. A respectful relationship does not involve one person exerting control over another through intimidation, threats, or manipulation.https://youtu.be/vyjAH4jhotE

Types of Family Abuse

• Physical Abuse: This involves any form of physical harm, such as hitting, slapping, choking, or using weapons. Physical abuse is often the most visible, but not the only form of Family violence.
• Sexual Abuse: Any form of non-consensual sexual activity, whether within or outside of marriage, is considered sexual abuse. This includes rape, unwanted touching, or forcing someone to engage in sexual acts against their will.
• Emotional and Psychological Abuse: This type of abuse includes behaviors like verbal insults, constant criticism, humiliation, and isolating the victim from friends or family. This may also involve manipulating someone’s behavior through threats, surveillance, or controlling their daily activities, such as who they can talk to, where they can go, or what they can wear.
• Financial or Economic Abuse: This occurs when one partner controls the financial resources, preventing the other from accessing money, working, or making independent financial decisions. This kind of abuse can leave victims feeling trapped and unable to escape the situation.
• Spiritual and religious violence: this form of abuse occurs when a person uses religious or spiritual beliefs to manipulate, control, or harm another individual.
• Neglect: this is a form of Family abuse that involves the failure to provide necessary care, support, or assistance to another, including children or the elderly. Unlike other forms of abuse that are more active or aggressive, neglect is characterised by omission or abandonment

Who Can Commit Family Violence?

Family violence, also called family violence or intimate partner violence, can be committed by anyone in your household or close circle. This includes:

• A spouse or partner (current or former)
• Siblings, cousins, or other relatives you live with
• Adult children
• Parents or in-laws
• Elders in the community, such as grandparents, uncles, or aunts

It’s important to remember that Family violence is not confined to heterosexual relationships—abuse can occur in same-sex relationships and any other family structures. Family violence also affects people of all ages, from young adults to seniors.

The Prevalence of Family Violence

Globally, Family violence is a major public health issue. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 1 in 3 women worldwide (about 30%) have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some point in their lives. In some regions, the numbers are even higher due to cultural and social norms that tolerate or even condone abusive behavior.

Family violence statistics are often underreported due to societal stigma, fear of retaliation, and lack of legal protections for victims. However, surveys and studies show that Family violence is a significant issue, with many women experiencing physical or emotional abuse at the hands of their partners or family members.

Legal Consequences and Support in Australia

In countries like Australia, Family violence is considered a serious crime, and laws are in place to protect victims. Perpetrators can face penalties such as restraining orders, fines, or imprisonment. Victims of Family violence are also entitled to legal protections, such as access to shelters, counseling services, and financial support.

If you or someone you know is facing Family violence, it is crucial to seek help. There are hotlines, shelters, and legal services available to support victims and guide them toward safety. Many countries are now recognising the importance of offering comprehensive resources for those in abusive situations, ensuring that they can rebuild their lives free from violence.

Information for these pages was sourced from: 1800 RESPECT, Victorian Centres Against Sexual Assault

Physical Violence

Physical violence is the most visible and recognisable form of Family violence. It involves the use of physical force or actions that harm or intimidate another person. Physical violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it is never acceptable in any relationship.

Some examples of physical violence include:

• Hitting, slapping, or punching: These are common forms of physical abuse where the abuser strikes the victim with their hands or fists.
• Kicking or shoving: Pushing or using feet to kick someone in order to hurt or intimidate them.
• Choking or strangling: Cutting off someone’s air supply by putting hands around their neck, which can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening.
• Throwing objects: The abuser may throw items like plates, bottles, or other objects at the victim as a way to scare or injure them.
• Using weapons: This includes threatening or attacking with knives, guns, or other dangerous objects. Even just threatening to use a weapon is a form of physical violence.
• Restraining or holding someone down: Forcing someone to stay in one place against their will, whether through physical strength or using objects like ropes.
• Forcing someone to leave or preventing them from leaving: Physically throwing someone out of the house or blocking doors to keep them from escaping.
• Biting, scratching, or pulling hair: These are other forms of physical harm used to intimidate or hurt the victim.

The Effects of Physical Violence

Physical violence often leaves visible signs, like bruises, cuts, or broken bones, but its effects can go far beyond the physical damage. Victims may feel scared, humiliated, and powerless, especially if the violence happens repeatedly. Over time, this can lead to serious emotional and psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Some victims may also blame themselves for the abuse or stay in the relationship out of fear, love, or because they believe the violence will stop.

It is important to understand that no one deserves to be abused, and the abuser is always responsible for their actions.

Why Physical Violence Happens

There are many reasons why someone may use physical violence, but it is always about power and control. The abuser often wants to dominate the victim, making them feel scared or helpless. Sometimes, the abuser may apologise afterward and promise that it won’t happen again, but unless the abuser seeks help, the cycle of violence is likely to continue.

It’s also important to recognise that physical violence can escalate over time. What may start as minor shoving or slapping can grow into more severe and life-threatening actions if the abuse is not stopped.

Video: Break the cycle of family violence (Pasefika Proud)

Sexual Violence

Sexual violence happens when someone is forced or pressured to take part in any sexual activity against their will. It is a form of abuse that can be deeply harmful, both physically and emotionally. Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender or age, and is never acceptable in any relationship.

Some examples of sexual violence include:

• Unwanted sexual touching: This happens when someone touches another person in a sexual way without their permission. This could involve kissing, groping, or grabbing someone’s private areas without their consent.
• Forcing someone to have sex: This is known as rape. Forcing someone to have sex against their will is a serious crime, even if the two people are married or in a relationship. No one has the right to force another person into any sexual act.
• Forcing someone to participate in sexual activities: Sexual violence is not limited to rape. It also includes pressuring or forcing someone to perform any sexual act they are uncomfortable with, including watching pornography against their will.
• Making inappropriate sexual comments or jokes: Verbal sexual harassment, such as making sexual jokes, comments, or suggestive remarks that make the other person feel uncomfortable, is a form of sexual violence. Even if no physical contact is involved, these comments can cause emotional harm and create a hostile environment.
• Forcing someone into sex work: This happens when someone is coerced or threatened into becoming involved in prostitution or other forms of sex work against their will. This is a serious violation of the person’s rights and can have severe consequences for their mental and physical health.
• Discriminating based on someone’s sexuality: Sexual violence also includes mistreating or discriminating against someone because of their sexual orientation. This could involve ridiculing someone for being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or any other sexual identity, or pressuring them to change their sexuality.
• Denying someone’s right to their sexual identity: Every person has the right to define and express their sexuality. Sexual violence includes forcing someone to hide their sexual identity or denying them the right to talk about their sexuality freely.
• Exposing someone deliberately to HIV, AIDS, or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Intentionally infecting someone with a sexually transmitted infection without their knowledge or consent is a serious form of sexual violence. It puts the victim’s health and life at risk.

The Effects of Sexual Violence

• Sexual violence can cause deep physical and emotional harm. Victims may suffer from physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, or unwanted pregnancies. Emotionally, victims often feel shame, guilt, fear, or even blame themselves for what happened, though the abuser is always at fault. Long-term effects can include depression, anxiety, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and difficulty trusting others.
• It’s important to understand that consent is key in any sexual relationship. Consent means both people freely agree to what is happening. If someone says “no”, is forced, or is unable to give consent (for example, because they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs), it is sexual violence.

Sexual Assault Crisis Line

1800 RESPECT

Psychological Violence

Psychological violence, also known as emotional or mental abuse, involves behaviors that harm a person’s emotional well-being or mental health. Unlike physical violence, psychological abuse doesn’t leave visible scars, but it can be just as damaging. The abuser uses words, threats, or manipulative actions to control, intimidate, or hurt the victim emotionally.

Some examples of psychological violence include:

• Constant criticism and humiliation: The abuser might repeatedly put the victim down, make them feel worthless, or insult their intelligence, looks, or abilities. Over time, this can destroy the victim’s self-esteem and confidence.
• Threats and intimidation: The abuser might threaten to hurt the victim, their loved ones, or even themselves (for example, threatening suicide) to maintain control. These threats may be about physical harm, taking away children, or ruining the victim’s reputation.
• Isolation: Psychological abusers often try to cut the victim off from their friends, family, or support networks. They may control where the victim goes, who they see, or even limit their access to phones or social media. The goal is to make the victim feel alone and dependent on the abuser.
• Gaslighting: Gaslighting is when the abuser manipulates the victim into doubting their own thoughts, feelings, or memories. For example, they might deny something that clearly happened, accuse the victim of being “too sensitive,” or make them feel like they are “losing their mind.” This tactic can cause deep confusion and emotional pain.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: An abuser might use extreme jealousy to control the victim’s actions, accusing them of infidelity or mistrusting them without any reason. This behavior often leads to constant surveillance or monitoring of the victim’s daily activities.
• Shaming or guilt-tripping: The abuser might use guilt to manipulate the victim, making them feel responsible for the abuser’s unhappiness or problems. They may say things like, “If you really loved me, you would…” or blame the victim for causing the abuse.
• Emotional manipulation: This involves using emotions to control or manipulate the victim. For instance, the abuser might swing between affection and anger to confuse the victim, or play the role of the victim themselves to gain sympathy and avoid accountability for their abusive actions.

The Impact of Psychological Violence

Psychological violence can cause deep emotional wounds. Victims may start to feel anxious, depressed, or worthless. They may also struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, or confusion, and might even start to believe they deserve the abuse. Over time, psychological violence can erode a person’s mental health, leading to long-term issues like anxiety disorders, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Financial Violence

Financial violence, also known as economic abuse, occurs when one person controls or manipulates another person’s financial resources without their consent. This type of abuse can leave victims feeling trapped and powerless, as it limits their independence and ability to make choices for themselves. Financial violence can happen in any type of relationship, including marriages, partnerships, or family situations.

Some examples of financial violence include:

• Preventing access to education: An abuser may not allow their partner or family member to pursue education or attend school. This can limit their job opportunities and independence, making it harder for them to escape the abusive situation.
• Controlling work choices: The abuser may dictate what kind of job the victim can have or not allow them to work at all. This control can prevent the victim from earning their own money and achieving financial independence.
• Illegally using someone’s money or property: This can include taking someone’s money without permission, using their credit cards, or spending their savings without their knowledge. This theft is a clear violation of trust and autonomy.
• Forging or copying signatures: The abuser may forge the victim’s signature on documents, such as loan applications or financial agreements, to gain access to the victim’s financial resources or take out loans in their name without consent.
• Opening mail without permission: This includes reading the victim’s financial statements or other private correspondence, which violates their privacy and can lead to further financial control.
• Destroying personal property: The abuser may intentionally damage or destroy items that belong to the victim, such as clothing, personal belongings, or even important documents, to assert control and manipulate the victim emotionally and financially.
• Limiting access to bank accounts and funds: An abuser might prevent the victim from accessing shared or personal bank accounts, leaving them without money for basic needs. This control makes it difficult for the victim to leave the abusive relationship.
• Forcing purchases or financial gifts: The abuser may pressure the victim to buy items for them or give away their money, further stripping the victim of financial independence. This could involve demanding that the victim buy gifts for the abuser or friends of the abuser.

The Impact of Financial Violence

Financial violence can have serious and lasting effects on victims. It can lead to a lack of financial security, making it hard to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare. Victims may feel trapped in the relationship due to their financial situation and may struggle to leave because they lack the necessary resources.

Over time, financial abuse can also lead to increased stress and anxiety, affecting the victim’s overall mental health. It’s important to recognise that financial violence is a form of abuse and can be just as damaging as physical or emotional violence.

Spiritual and Religious Violence

Spiritual and religious violence occurs when someone uses another person’s spiritual or religious beliefs to control, manipulate, or harm them. This type of abuse can deeply affect a person’s sense of identity and connection to their faith or spirituality. It can occur in any relationship where one person holds power over another, including family, friendships, or intimate partnerships.

Some examples of spiritual and religious violence include:

• Using religion to justify abuse: Sometimes, abusers may misinterpret or manipulate religious texts or teachings to justify their abusive behavior. They may claim that their actions are acceptable because of their interpretation of faith, using spirituality as a weapon against the victim. In the Arabic-speaking community, this might include weaponising religion for abuse, such as to justify marital rape by saying that women cannot decline sex with their husbands, or controlling women’s movements by claiming saying that women cannot leave the home without their husbands’ permission
• Restricting spiritual practices: An abuser may not allow the victim to follow their preferred religious or spiritual traditions. This can involve prohibiting them from attending religious services, practicing their faith at home, or engaging in rituals that are important to them.
• Forcing beliefs or practices: This happens when someone pressures or forces another person to adopt their beliefs or practices, often against their will. For example, an abuser might insist that their partner change their religion or participate in specific rituals that they do not agree with or feel comfortable doing.
• Mocking or belittling beliefs: The abuser may make fun of or ridicule the victim’s traditions, beliefs, or practices. This can include laughing at their religious customs, criticising their beliefs, or dismissing their spiritual experiences, which can lead to feelings of shame and isolation.
• Shaming for spiritual choices: An abuser may shame or guilt the victim for their spiritual choices, creating a sense of inadequacy. For example, they might say that the victim is not a “true believer” or that they are failing their faith because they choose not to follow certain practices.

The Impact of Spiritual and Religious Violence

Spiritual and religious violence can have profound effects on a person’s emotional and psychological well-being. It can lead to feelings of confusion, isolation, and loss of faith. Victims may struggle with their sense of identity, questioning their beliefs and their worth. This form of violence can also disrupt their connections to community and support networks, making it even harder to seek help. The emotional scars from spiritual and religious violence can last long after the abuse ends, affecting a person’s ability to trust others and find peace in their spiritual life. It’s crucial to recognise that everyone has the right to their beliefs and practices without fear of manipulation or control.

Neglect

Neglect occurs when someone who has the responsibility to care for another person fails to provide the necessary support and assistance.

This can happen in various settings, such as families, institutions, or caregiving relationships. Neglect can affect anyone, but it is especially harmful to children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities who rely on others for care.

Some examples of neglect include:

• Failing to meet basic needs: This involves not providing essential necessities for the person’s well-being, such as:
  • Food and drink: Not providing enough nutritious food or clean water can lead to hunger and dehydration.
  • Shelter: Failing to provide a safe and secure place to live can leave the person exposed to dangers, such as extreme weather or unsafe living conditions.
  • Clean clothes and linens: Not ensuring that the person has access to clean clothing or bedding can affect their health and comfort.
  • Social relationships: Isolating someone from friends and family or not allowing them to engage in social activities can lead to loneliness and emotional distress.
• Not staying with someone who needs help: This can occur in both emergency and non-emergency situations. For example, if a caregiver leaves a vulnerable person alone during a crisis, it can put them at significant risk. In non-emergency situations, failing to check on someone who requires assistance can lead to unmet needs and feelings of abandonment.
• Medical neglect: This type of neglect includes failing to provide necessary medical care or support, which can have serious consequences for the individual’s health. Examples include:
  • Ignoring special dietary requirements: Some individuals may have specific dietary needs due to medical conditions, and neglecting these can worsen their health.
  • Not administering necessary medication: If a caregiver fails to give the person their prescribed medications, it can lead to serious health complications.
  • Not being aware of the potential negative effects of medications: Neglect can also involve a lack of understanding about the side effects of medications, which can result in the person experiencing harm or discomfort that could have been avoided.

The Impact of Neglect

Neglect can have severe and long-lasting effects on a person’s physical, emotional, and mental health. Without proper care and support, individuals may suffer from malnutrition, health problems, emotional distress, and a decline in their overall quality of life.

Children who experience neglect may face developmental delays, difficulty forming healthy relationships, and challenges in school. For adults, especially the elderly, neglect can lead to increased vulnerability to illness, injury, and even death. It is essential to recognise that neglect is a form of abuse, and everyone deserves to have their basic needs met and to receive the care and support they require.

Cyber Abuse in the Context of Family Violence

Cyber abuse, also known as digital or technology-facilitated abuse, is an increasingly prevalent form of Family violence. This type of abuse involves the use of technology, such as smartphones, social media, and other digital platforms, to harass, control, intimidate, or stalk a partner or ex-partner. Cyber abuse can be as damaging as physical violence, with significant psychological and emotional consequences for victims.

Forms of Cyber Abuse

• Harassment and Stalking: Abusers may use social media, messaging apps, or other online platforms to monitor and control a victim’s activities. This may include repeated, unwanted contact through direct messages, emails, or phone calls. Stalking behaviors can extend to using GPS tracking on devices or location-sharing apps to follow a victim’s movements.
• Threats and Intimidation: Perpetrators may send threatening messages or emails to intimidate their partner or use online platforms to post harmful or embarrassing information. The abuser may also make threats to harm the victim or their loved ones, creating a climate of fear and control.
• Impersonation and Image-Based Abuse: Abusers may impersonate the victim by creating fake social media profiles or accessing their accounts to post damaging content. Image-based abuse, such as sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent, can severely impact the victim’s mental health and social life.
• Financial Control: Cyber abuse can also involve financial abuse, where the perpetrator uses technology to monitor or control the victim’s financial resources. This could include unauthorized access to bank accounts, fraudulent online purchases, or interference with the victim’s employment by sending harmful communications to their employer.

The Psychological Impact of Cyber Abuse

The psychological toll of cyber abuse is profound. Victims often experience increased levels of anxiety, depression, fear, and paranoia. The constant intrusion and monitoring create a sense of helplessness and loss of autonomy. Studies have shown that victims of technology-facilitated abuse are more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related symptoms due to the pervasive and persistent nature of the abuse.

The Connection to Physical Abuse

Research indicates that cyber abuse often co-occurs with other forms of Family violence, such as physical and emotional abuse. The use of technology to harass and control is often part of a larger pattern of coercive control. The perpetrator’s ability to extend their reach into a victim’s digital space intensifies the abuse and can make it harder for victims to find refuge.

Barriers to Escaping Cyber Abuse

Victims of cyber abuse face unique challenges when trying to escape their situation. Unlike physical violence, which is confined to specific locations, cyber abuse can reach the victim anywhere, making it feel inescapable. Additionally, victims may be unaware of how to secure their devices, social media accounts, or other digital information from an abuser’s reach. The complexity of navigating digital safety can deter victims from seeking help or reporting the abuse.

Supporting Victims of Cyber Abuse

To effectively support victims of cyber abuse, a multi-faceted approach is necessary:

– Education and Awareness: Teaching individuals about digital safety practices, such as enabling two-factor authentication, changing passwords frequently, and limiting the sharing of personal information online, is critical.

– Legal Protections: Many countries, including Australia, have laws in place that criminalize cyber harassment and image-based abuse. Enforcing these laws and ensuring that victims know their rights is essential for their protection.

– Support Services: Victims should have access to support services such as counseling, digital safety resources, and crisis hotlines. Organizations like *1800RESPECT* in Australia provide resources and support for victims of Family violence, including those experiencing technology-facilitated abuse.

Conclusion

Cyber abuse in the context of Family violence is a severe and growing issue that demands attention and action. Its effects are deeply harmful, impacting the mental health, safety, and well-being of victims. Recognizing the signs of cyber abuse, understanding its impact, and implementing protective measures are crucial steps in supporting victims and preventing further harm.

Support and Counselling

If you are experiencing Family violence or abuse, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and there are many organisations available to help you. These organisations can connect you with a variety of services tailored to your needs.

Types of Support Services

• Counselors: Speaking with a counselor can provide a safe space to talk about your experiences and feelings. They can help you understand your situation better and work through any emotional challenges you may face.
• Case Workers and Social Workers: Case workers are professionals who can assist you in making important decisions about your safety and well-being. They can help you explore your options and develop a plan that works best for you.
• Lawyers: If you need legal assistance, there are lawyers who specialise in Family violence cases. They can help you navigate the legal system, whether you need support in reporting to the police, attending court, or dealing with visa issues.
• Shelter and Housing Services: If you decide to leave your home for your safety, there are organisations that can help you find safe shelter and housing. They can provide resources and support as you transition to a safer living environment.

Empowering Your Choices

Support services are dedicated to listening to you and discussing the various choices available to you. It’s essential to know that you can make decisions that feel right for you, and you will be supported no matter what choice you make. Whether you choose to stay, leave, or seek help, your feelings and choices are valid. Reaching out is a courageous step. These organisations are here to listen, support, and help you through this difficult time.

In Touch Services

In Touch is an Australian organisation that offers free, confidential advice and support in your own language. They have experience helping many individuals in situations like yours and prioritise your safety and the safety of your children. They can also help people who are based in Australia, but who are not citizens or permanent residents.

For a free and confidential service, you can contact them at:

• Phone: 03 9413 6500
• Toll-free: 1800 755 988
• Website: In Touch – Get Help

Getting Help and Protecting Yourself

If you or someone you know is experiencing physical violence, it is crucial to take action to protect yourself. There are steps you can take to ensure your safety and well-being.

Steps to Take

• Calling for Help:
  • If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services right away. In many countries, this can be done by dialing a specific emergency number (like 000 in Australia, 911 in the U.S. 999 in Qatar, Saudi and the UAE).You can also reach out to Family violence hotlines that provide confidential support and guidance. These hotlines often have trained professionals available 24/7 to listen and help you.
• Creating a Safety Plan:
  • If leaving the situation immediately isn’t possible, it’s important to create a safety plan. This plan should outline steps you can take to escape or protect yourself if the violence occurs again.
  • Consider where you can go if you need to leave, such as a friend’s house, a shelter, or a family member’s home.
  • Identify safe places in your home where you can go during an incident. Plan ahead to avoid getting cornered or trapped.
  • Keep essential items ready, such as important documents (ID, financial information), a change of clothes, medications, and anything else you might need if you have to leave quickly.
  • If you have children, consider having a bag prepared for them that you can easily take with you.
• Seeking Medical Care:
  • If you have been injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, they should be evaluated by healthcare and forensics professionals.
  • Getting medical care not only addresses your physical injuries but also creates a record of the abuse, which may be helpful if you decide to report the incident later.
• Reporting the Abuse:
  • In many countries, physical violence is considered a crime, and there are legal protections available for victims. Reporting the abuse to the police can help stop the violence and prevent future harm.
  • Be aware that you have the right to report the abuse, and law enforcement should take your claims seriously. If you feel comfortable, provide them with as much information as possible about the incidents.
• If you are worried about the potential consequences of reporting, consider seeking legal advice or talking to a Family violence advocate who can help guide you through the process.

Remember

Your safety is the most important priority. You have the right to feel safe and secure in your own life.

Taking these steps can help empower you to protect yourself and seek the help you need.

Remember, you are not alone, and there are people and organisations ready to support you.

What to do if you suspect abuse in another

If you suspect that someone you know is experiencing abuse, it’s important to take action. Your support can make a significant difference in their life. Here are some steps you can take:

Recognising Signs of Abuse

• Understand Types of Violence:
  • Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, financial, spiritual, and neglect. While this section discusses several types, it’s important to remember that there may be other forms of violence not listed here.

• Look for Warning Signs:
  • Be aware of signs that may indicate abuse. These can include:
  • Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents.”
    • Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from friends and family.
    • Anxiety or depression.
    • Fearfulness around certain individuals.

Supporting the Individual

• Offer a Listening Ear:
  • If you feel safe doing so, approach the person with care and compassion. Let them know that you are there for them and willing to listen without judgment. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can help them feel supported.

• Encourage Them to Seek Help:
  • Gently suggest that they reach out for help, whether it’s from a counselor, a trusted friend, or a local support service. Let them know that there are people and organisations ready to assist them.

Taking Action

• Call for Help:
  • If you believe the situation is urgent and the person is in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call the police by dialing 000 in Australia. Police officers are trained to handle situations involving violence and can provide the necessary protection and support.
• Trust in Police Protection:
  • In Australia, the police are generally seen as a safe and trustworthy resource. If the victim’s visa sponsor is the one committing the violence, it’s still important to call the police. Victims are protected by law, regardless of their immigration status. You can also call support services like InTouch to discuss VISA options
• Provide Resources:
  • Share information about confidential counseling services. You can encourage the person to call 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732 for free, professional advice and support regarding Family violence.
• Language Support:
  • If they need assistance in a language other than English, let them know that they can access free interpreter services by calling 131 450.

Self-Care for Victims and Supporters

Dealing with Family violence can take a heavy emotional toll on both victims and those who support them. It’s essential for everyone involved to prioritise their well-being and engage in self-care practices to maintain emotional and mental health. Here are some self-care strategies for both victims and supporters:

Self-Care for Victims

• Seek Professional Help:
  • Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specialises in trauma and Family violence. Professional support can provide a safe space to process feelings and develop coping strategies.
• Establish a Support Network:
  • Surround yourself with trusted friends and family who can provide emotional support. Sharing your feelings with those who care about you can alleviate feelings of isolation.
• Create a Safe Space:
  • Designate a personal space in your home where you feel safe and at ease. Fill this space with items that bring you comfort, such as books, photos, or calming scents.
• Engage in Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
  • Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Taking a few moments each day for mindfulness can significantly improve mental well-being.
• Prioritise Physical Health:
  • Pay attention to your physical health by eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise. Physical well-being is closely linked to emotional health.
• Limit Exposure to Stressors:
  • Identify activities or situations that increase your stress levels and try to minimise your exposure to them. This may include distancing yourself from negative influences or news that trigger anxiety.
• Set Boundaries:
  • Establish clear boundaries with people in your life to protect your mental health. This can include limiting interactions with certain individuals or saying no to obligations that drain your energy.
• Engage in Activities You Enjoy:
  • Spend time doing things that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it’s a hobby, reading, or spending time in nature. Engaging in pleasurable activities can help lift your spirits.

Self-Care for Supporters

• Educate Yourself:
  • Understanding the dynamics of Family violence can help you provide better support. Educate yourself on the signs, symptoms, and resources available for victims.
• Practice Active Listening:
  • When someone confides in you, practice active listening. Show empathy and validate their feelings without judgment. Sometimes, just being heard can be incredibly healing.
• Encourage Professional Support:
  • While your support is valuable, it’s important to encourage victims to seek professional help as well. A therapist or counselor can provide specialised support that you may not be able to offer.
• Set Boundaries for Yourself:
  • Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally draining. It’s crucial to set boundaries to protect your own mental health. Allow yourself to take breaks and step back when needed.
• Engage in Your Own Self-Care:
  • Prioritise your well-being by engaging in self-care activities. This can include exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or practicing relaxation techniques.
• Seek Support for Yourself:
  • Consider joining a support group for friends and family of abuse victims. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can help you process your feelings and cope with the emotional burden.
• Avoid Burnout:
  • Be mindful of your own emotional state and avoid taking on too much responsibility for the victim’s situation. It’s important to recognise that you cannot “fix” everything, and it’s okay to take a step back.
• Practice Patience:
  • Understand that healing takes time for both the victim and yourself. Be patient with the process and recognise that progress may come in small steps.

Conclusion

Self-care is crucial for both victims of Family violence and those who support them. By prioritising emotional and physical well-being, both parties can build resilience and foster healthier relationships.

Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to be more present and supportive for others.

Myths and Misconceptions about Family Violence

Family violence is often surrounded by misunderstandings and stereotypes that can prevent individuals from recognising abuse or seeking help. It’s essential to challenge these myths to foster a better understanding of the issue and support victims more effectively. Here are some common myths and the realities behind them:

Myth 1: Family Violence Only Affects Certain Types of People

Reality: Family violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or sexual orientation. It crosses all cultural, educational, and income boundaries. Victims can be men, women, and non-binary individuals, and abusers can also be from any demographic.

Myth 2: Victims Can Just Leave if They Want To

Reality: Leaving an abusive relationship is often not as simple as it seems. Many victims face significant barriers that make it difficult to leave, such as fear of retaliation, emotional dependency on the abuser, financial constraints, or concerns for their children’s safety. Additionally, the cycle of abuse can make victims feel trapped and powerless.

Myth 3: Family Violence is Just Physical Abuse

Reality: While physical abuse is one form of Family violence, it is not the only type. Family violence can also include emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and spiritual abuse. These forms of abuse can be equally damaging, often leaving long-lasting psychological scars that are harder to see.

Myth 4: Alcohol and Drugs Are the Main Causes of Family Violence

Reality: While substance abuse can exacerbate violent behavior, it is not the root cause of Family violence. Many individuals who struggle with substance abuse do not commit violence, and many abusers do not use substances. Family violence is fundamentally about power and control, not addiction.

Myth 5: Family Violence is a Private Matter

Reality: Family violence is a societal issue, not just a private family problem. It affects not only the individuals involved but also their families, friends, and communities. Raising awareness and addressing Family violence publicly can help create a supportive environment for victims to seek help.

Myth 6: Victims are Responsible for the Abuse

Reality: No one is responsible for the abuse they suffer. The abuser is always responsible for their violent behavior. Victims may feel guilt or shame, but it is crucial to understand that the decision to abuse is made by the perpetrator, not the victim.

Myth 7: Children Don’t Notice Family Violence

Reality: Children are often aware of violence in their homes, even if they don’t fully understand it. They are aware of it even as neonates and infants. Witnessing Family violence can have severe emotional and psychological effects on children, leading to long-term trauma, behavioral issues, and difficulties forming healthy relationships.

Myth 8: Family Violence Only Happens in Lower-Income Families

Reality: Family violence occurs across all income levels and social classes. It is a misconception that it only happens in economically pressured situations. Wealthy individuals, professionals, and those with higher education levels can also be abusers or victims.

Myth 9: The Victim Provokes the Abuse

Reality: No one deserves to be abused, and blaming the victim for provoking the abuser is unjust. Abusers use various tactics to exert power and control, and victims are not responsible for the abuser’s choices or actions.

Conclusion

Understanding these myths and misconceptions is crucial for fostering a supportive environment for victims of Family violence. By challenging these beliefs, we can create awareness and promote healthier conversations about Family violence. This helps ensure that victims feel supported in seeking help and that society collectively works to end Family violence.