Violence… From a young age, most of us were taught that Violence was never the correct answer, no matter the circumstances. During that process, we lived in our “perfect” childhood. However, a few would agree that they were never taught this but instead learned it the hard way which was being brought up in an environment full of Violence. There are many various types of Violence, and one of them is Domestic Violence. Domestic Violence refers to any violent or aggressive behavior within the home. Many tend to refer to Domestic Violence as the Unspoken Pandemic. Since the global pandemic in which everyone was in lockdown, domestic violence rates had increased drastically. According to a Straits Times Article, “The Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) said it received 619 inquiries in March this year, a 35 percent jump from March last year”. Therefore, in light of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are going to learn, understand more about Domestic Violence and how to reduce it.
Many people tend to associate physical abuse with domestic Violence. Well, yes, it is part of domestic Violence. However, there are many other abuse cases, such as Psychological and Economical, associated with Domestic Violence. Firstly, Psychological Abuse is defined as a way of a partner being in control of the victim through their emotions. It is also known as Emotional Abuse. Psychological abuse is known to be challenging to recognize due to the manipulation used. Usually, the use of shame, guilt, and blame is used to lower the victim’s self-esteem, affecting their mental state of health. Secondly, Economical Abuse is when a partner has control over the economic resources of the victim. The partner either drains their money or restricts them over their resources, causing the victim to depend on the partner financially. It can be for paying transportation, food, and even clothing. Lastly, Physical abuse is known as an intentional act of harm towards someone causing trauma or injury. It is also known as sexual abuse. Therefore, it is essential to note that this does not happen to you in any case.
According to an article it stated that “Approximately 5 million children are exposed to domestic Violence every year. Children exposed are more likely to attempt suicide, abuse drugs and alcohol, run away from home, engage in teenage prostitution, and commit sexual assault crimes.” These are just some effects of Domestic Violence. Domestic violence victims tend to end up with depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety due to the massive trauma received during that period. Those that live with a partner that has weapons have a higher of ending up killed. According to HuffPost, “85% of domestic violence victims are female, and 15% are male”. Women and Men are at the highest risk of being the victim of domestic Violence. Those with male and female partners who abuse drugs (especially alcohol) are unemployed or underemployed and afflicted by poverty. These effects may be so insignificant to us but can affect how one goes on with life and how it affects their life.
It is vital to help a victim. However, we need to be clear of the warning sign and impacts of a victim to help them. Some physical movements would be bruises on their arm, black eye, and even sprained wrists. For emotional symptoms would be a change in sleeping habits, low self-esteem, and seeming very fearful. They might also have a financial instability due to economic abuse they have suffered. Some impacts of Domestic Violence would include shortness in breath, chronic fatigue, menstrual cycle/fertility issues for women, Post Traumatic stress disorder, and the inability to trust. Therefore, it is crucial to keep these signs in mind as it might be of fair use.
Overcoming a severe issue requires tremendous effort and guidance throughout the entire process, especially for Domestic Violence. Being a victim, some ways in which you can overcome Domestic Violence would be to do therapy, engaging in a self-defense class, forgiving them, and let yourself know that it is not your fault. Trying treatment can help let go and seek proper advice from someone professional. Engaging in a self-defense class will let you release the pain and also help you in times of need. Forgiving them and admitting it isn’t your fault is one way to allow you to keep up your life. Those who know victims of Domestic Violence try to lend a helping hand financially and morally as they would need all the support and care they can get.
Fighting through a silent war is possible to do but hard to win, likewise for Domestic Violence. It is important to voice out in a time of need to at least someone you trust to get better and get the help and support needed. Therefore, for those who are Domestic Violence victims and yet to seek help, DO IT NOW. Call PAVE Integrated Services for Individual and Family Protection Specialist Centre (ISIFPSC) at 6555 0390 to get help. For those 21 and above, you can also file a Protection Order to ensure that you are protected and safe. Remember that your safety and your wellbeing is what matters most.
Nisha‘s blog 