Abuse

Statistics show that many people every year are either abused, or may feel their personality is sometimes abusive.

An abusive relationship may have one or more of the following factors:-

• There is an imbalance of power – one person is much more powerful than the other
• There may be threats of physical or sexual violence
• One person controls another person’s behaviour
• There may be constant criticism or put-downs
• One person’s needs are never considered
• One person’s moods may be unpredictable and violent to the extent that the other person never knows what to expect

Those who have been abused may have feelings of guilt, shame, anger and loss that are not deserved. Sometimes they may unjustifiably assume the blame for the things which have happened. These feelings often reduce self-esteem and cause difficulties with relationships and behaviour.

Counselling can aid the healing process by increasing self-esteem and reducing uncomfortable or distressing feelings. It can also help you to re-assess your own role within this situation.