Domestic abuse is any behaviour that aims to dominate or maintain control over a partner, spouse, family member or girlfriend/boyfriend. The abuse may be physical, emotional, verbal, sexual or financial in nature. You may feel controlled, threatened, coerced or demeaned.

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 Germany who with abuse and domestic violence if you are experiencing these signs:

Your partner/family member is constantly trying to convince you you’re crazy and makes you doubt your experiences (also known as gaslighting)
Your partner/family member has told you they will commit suicide if you leave
You are being isolated from friends and family members
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
Avoiding certain topics so that you don’t anger your partner/family member
You are being controlled by your partner/family member
Any form of physical harm (hitting, slapping, strangling, kicking, burning, cutting)
Your partner/family member is acting excessively jealously

Experiencing a wide range of emotions is perfectly normal for victims of abuse and domestic violence. Doubting the clarity of your mind or your ability to understand what’s happening is also a common consequence of the abuse you have experienced.

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 Germany who understands how abusive relationships work might help you feel less hopeless and powerless.

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