When people think of domestic violence, they usually think of physical abuse like being punched, bruised, strangled or killed. But the reality is domestic violence comes in many forms,

▪️ Like intimidation where victims live in fear of the next explosive temper tantrum or violent act.

▪️ It might be taking control of the family finances so the victim doesn’t have the ability to financially support themselves if they dare to leave the relationship.

▪️ It could be the fear of losing access to their children or the risk of the abuser harming their children.

▪️ A common form of abuse is intercepting phone calls, text and social media so victims are isolated from friends and family, the very people who are most likely to help them.

▪️ I’ve even heard about victims being denied access to medical attention after violent attacks and some perpetrators ensuring all signs of physical abuse can be covered by clothing.

For all of these reasons and my past silence, I’ve realised domestic violence is like an iceberg. Most of it can’t be seen.