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 being psychologically, emotionally or physically harmed, you are not alone. Statistics show that one in three women and one in three men have experienced abuse and domestic violence. If you're looking for support, there are 4 abuse and domestic violence hotlines in South Africa. Reach out if this is happening:

Avoiding certain topics so that you don’t anger your partner/family member
You feel threatened all the time
Being forced to have unsafe sex
Your belongings and property being destroyed
You are embarrassed for your close ones to see how your partner/family member treats you
Your partner/family member constantly checks up on you
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
Your privacy online being invaded

Every case of abuse and domestic violence is unique. Every family and partnership has its own story. It’s perfectly normal to feel conflicted and insecure about the whole situation. Going through it alone can be confusing and, importantly, dangerous.

Every story of abuse and domestic violence is unique. You are the one who will figure out what the best way out is for you as a person and in your circumstances. However, it is always easier to overcome such hardships with the right kind of support.

For free and confidential support with abuse and domestic violence, consider contacting a hotline in South Africa today.