Are you experiencing abuse or domestic violence? Contact a hotline in Jamaica for support
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.
If you are in Jamaica and you are exposed to violence, 2 hotlines that support with abuse and domestic violence are available to you. You do not have to bear that burden in quiet, alone. Reach out if you are noticing these signs:
Fear of your partner/family member much of the time
Feeling like you can’t do anything right for your partner/family member
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
You are being isolated from friends and family members
Your partner/family member is acting excessively jealously
Your partner/family member blames you for how they behave
Being exposed to intimidation and coercion
Any form of physical harm (hitting, slapping, strangling, kicking, burning, cutting)
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.
If you're experiencing abuse and domestic violence, feeling scared is perfectly natural. You could be doubtful and convinced that there’s no way out. Talking to someone in Jamaica who understands how abusive relationships work might help you feel less hopeless and powerless.
If you are ready to talk to someone about your experiences of abuse or domestic violence, you can contact a hotline in Jamaica for free and confidential support.