Even though dealing with domestic violence is never simple— remember that you are not alone!
Here are some Practical Tips: Unfortunately, domestic violence is a harsh reality that still haunts many individuals. The fact that domestic abuse is more common among women–but men occasionally face such a conundrum too.
Domestic brutality is devastating for everyone, whether you are the victim or a friend, family member, or loved one of someone who is facing such a turmoil. It is a common type offorce that affects people of all ages, races, and genders regardless of their traits and norms.
Not to mention here that domestic violence affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States each year—including one in every four women and one in every nine men.
If you are experiencing domestic violence and considering leaving, a solid plan can help you navigate the situation.
Here are some practical tips to help you sweep out of the calamity:
Understand domestic violence
Domestic cruelty can be emotional, mental, physical, sexual, religious, or a combination of these. Abusers can go long periods without abusing and be loving and attentive. As a result, some victims may question whether they are genuinely experiencing domestic brutallity or not. Regardless of how frequently someone makes you feel scared or in danger, if they do, it is no wonder that you are living in an abusive relationship.
Not to mention here that not all abusive relationships begin this way, and it can take months or years for an abuser to start acting violently. Controlling and manipulative behaviors can develop so gradually that the victim may be unable to pinpoint when the relationship began to devolve. Therefore, it is essential to understand the person in front of you.
Reading HUGGER MUGGER: The Con Man Smile, Part 1 and MAZE AFLAME: Flimflam Man, Part 2, can help; these books highlight a picture-perfect portrayal of narcissism in the voice of M. L. Stark, a confident and fierce woman who has faced such dark times and managed to move on in life.
Speak up and accept yourself
Feeling unsafe and having difficulty establishing connections is always a problem when dealing with trauma—especially when dealing with a person with narcissistic personality disorder who constantly attempt to abuse you no matter what.
However, coming out in the light requires a lot of self-love and social interaction. Staying or sharing thoughts with someone you can trust works like wonder and help detach yourself from the situation and think of a possible solution. Therefore, try to communicate and sit with someone you love—share your concerns and thoughts with them and ask them to help you out. They will more likely support you regarding your circumstances and difficulties—but you need to accept yourself and be confident to make that work.
You must forgive yourself.
Victims of domestic violence often find themselves in the loop of misery–and think of themselves accountable for the same. However, you have to keep in mind that this is not your fault. There was nothing you did wrong. You are not to blame for your partner hurting you. You did not bring this on yourself.
The circumstances of the alliance may have changed from the beginning due to an unhealthy cycle of behaviors developed intentionally by your abusive partner to keep you trapped in the relationship.
However, that does not mean that you are the one to be blamed for. You need to stay calm, and forgive yourself in order to move on.
Contact the police or the emergency services
Unfortunately, in worst case scenario if you have been injured or sexually assaulted, waste no time, and immediately contact 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department if you can.
You can also seek help from a sexual assault counsellor to help you through this process. Inform them that you feel unsafe. They are there to keep you safe. You can also contact state and territory helplines to discuss the risks you face.
Remember, that your life matters the most, and no one has the right to harm and insult you no matter what!
