Domestic Violence: Breaking the Silence, Building Hope

Domestic violence is not just a private issue—it’s a global crisis affecting millions of individuals, families, and communities every year. It can take many forms: physical harm, emotional abuse, financial control, coercion, or psychological intimidation. Behind closed doors, countless victims suffer in silence, often feeling trapped, ashamed, or fearful for their safety.

Domestic violence not only occurs in low socio economic families it can be from any cultural background rich or poor.  Victims from some cultures still do not report the violence due to their fear and belief systems.  Most victims live in fear of retribution or retaliation.

The Cycle of Abuse

The Cycle of Abuse often follows a repeat cycle within the relationship as well as the cycle of generational abuse.  It can be from tension, and no emotional intelligence to be able to self control the negative emotions such as anger, resentment, frustration and control.  The abuser may apologise, however without intervention or change it will continue and often become more severe or even death.

Victims Stay at times due to the Shame, fear, low self esteem and self worth, financial abuse where the abuser doesn’t give the person money, the abusers are quite emotionally abusive and very manipulating causing existing low self esteem and self worth becomes more extreme.  Other reasons they may stay are due to social stigma and lack of support.

Why Victims Stay

Leaving an abusive relationship is incredibly challenging, but it is possible with the right support. This may include: Hotlines and crisis centers, Shelters that provide safety and resource, Counselling and therapy for recovery and empowerment, Legal support to protect victims’ rights.

However at times these resources are very limited or non existent in some cultures.

You Can Help by notifying the authorities If you suspect someone is experiencing domestic violence. Listen without judgment, Many people wonder why victims don’t “just leave.” The truth is complex Fear of further violence or harm to themselves and their children, Financial dependence on the abuser.

Emotional manipulation and loss of self-worth.

Social stigma and lack of support systems but respect their decisions, Share resources like local helplines and shelters, Stand against abuse by raising awareness in your community.

Domestic violence thrives in silence. By speaking up, supporting survivors, and promoting education, we can break the cycle and build a world where safety and respect are the norm—not the exception.

If you or someone you know is in danger, contact your local domestic violence helpline immediately.