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 experiencing abuse or domestic violence, you do not have to deal with this on your own. Staff from 3 hotlines that support people experiencing abuse and domestic violence in Bristol, England can help. Contact them if these signs of abuse sound familiar:

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

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.

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 Bristol, England who understands how abusive relationships work might help you feel less hopeless and powerless.

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