Domestic abuse is any action intended to control or keep power over a spouse, partner, family member, or girlfriend/boyfriend. The abuse may take the form of something physical, or it may be emotional, verbal, sexual, or financial. You might feel threatened, controlled, or belittled.

One in three women and one in three men have experienced abuse or domestic violence. You might be afraid of reaching out for support. However, there are people who are equipped and willing to help you. Consider reaching out to any of the 5 hotlines in Wales who with abuse and domestic violence if you are experiencing these signs:

Your partner/family member yells at you
Your partner/family member has an unpredictable, violent temperament, and they direct the anger at you
Your belongings and property being destroyed
Avoiding certain topics so that you don’t anger your partner/family member
Being exposed to intimidation and coercion
Your devices are being monitored or tracked by a partner/family member
You are embarrassed for your close ones to see how your partner/family member treats you
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to

After months or years of abusive behaviour from your partner or family member, you might doubting yourself and your sanity. However, this is your abuser talking. The abuse, and everything associated with it, is not your fault.

It’s normal if you feel isolated. Victims of abuse and domestic violence are exposed to extreme stress and often go through it alone. Even though it might feel difficult to share what you are going through, hotline staff in Wales will listen, try to understand – and help you.

Consider contacting a helpline in Wales for free, confidential help with abuse and domestic violence today.