Glossary
Domestic Violence
What is
Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence can cause significant issues with mental health that often benefit from therapeutic support.
What Is It?
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviour in a relationship used to gain or maintain control over a partner. It can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial, and occurs in all kinds of relationships, regardless of background or gender.
Common Experiences
Victims may experience intimidation, isolation, threats, or physical harm. Abusers often use manipulation to erode self-esteem and create dependency. Survivors frequently feel trapped, ashamed, or fearful of seeking help, especially when children, finances, or emotional ties are involved.
How It Can Affect You
Domestic violence can have long-lasting impacts on mental and physical health, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic illness. It disrupts personal safety, trust, and independence. Recovery often requires specialist support, safe environments, and time to rebuild confidence and autonomy.
Ways Therapy Can Help
Providing coping strategies for managing the impact of domestic violence
Creating a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions
Identifying support networks
Building resilience, self-esteem and improving self-compassion
