I am a survivor of domestic violence. Ending a mentally and physically abusive relationship was the hardest thing I have ever done. Nearly 13 years later, the details of my relationship are still hard to share. I know I am lucky to have escaped. I’m thankful to be alive and that my life is free from abuse, control and the exhaustion that comes from living in fear.
Domestic Violence In The South Asian Community Is Rising During The Pandemic – Here’s How You Can Help
Why I Have A Problem With The Term ‘Domestic Abuse Survivor’
I have a problem with the term ‘domestic abuse survivor’. Bear with me on this. I’m saying this from the point of view of a survivor of domestic abuse. Most of my adult relationships have been abusive. I’ve been through physical, sexual, psychological and economical abuse so I tick the boxes. I support all of the campaigns that help victims of domestic abuse regardless of gender, creed, colour or sexual orientation.
COVID-19: Supporting SGBV Survivors During A Pandemic
The year 2020 has been an incredibly difficult year, more so for victims and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria who have had to deal with the impact of two pandemics; COVID-19 and SGBV. In May, Uwa was brutally raped in a church in Benin, the gruesome attack led to her death. Barakat Bello was raped and killed in her home in June; and Grace Oshiagwu was raped and killed in Ibadan.
Freedom
17 years ago I got married for the second time. We were blessed with a warm, crisp and sunny Autumn day and were surrounded by family and friends in the small country house hotel we had exclusive use of for the event. Little did I know then what experiences that marriage would bring me. I’d been married before to a physically and sexually abusive man who had beat me up for the first time on our wedding night. I was adamant that my second marriage would be for life.
Emotional Abuse: How To Recognize The Signs
Emotional abuse in relationships is widespread and can have serious effects in one's life. Whereas physical and sexual abuse can easily be identified by a single definable offensive act, emotional abuse can often be disguised as an expression of love or humor and is not always perceived as being abusive when it occurs.
Twelve Tips to Manage Anxiety
Anxiety can affect so many of us and so many are suffering right now more than ever. Here are some simple and effective techniques to help you manage anxiety.
Older Women: The Hidden Victims Of Gender-Based Violence
GBV is a growing problem among older couples, women of age 50+ but it is not always taken seriously. So, they suffer in silence. It is rampant but mostly hidden because most victims fear reporting. This scenario is as a result of cultural, and social factors and norms, fear and embarrassment to ask for help, and the belief that the menace affects mostly the young women.
How I Survived An Abusive Marriage And Turned My Life Around
When I was in the midst of my abusive relationship, I thought it was all my fault. Thats what I kept being told and thats what I believed. It took me the time to do the work on myself to understand that none of this was my fault. Once I started seeing things in a new perspective, it was a game changer.
Let’s talk about sexual violence…
Sexual violence is among the most damaging crimes a person can inflict on another. The effects can be devastating, often involving life - changing consequences such as unwanted pregnancies, mental and physical problems, sexually transmitted infections, and sleep and eating disorders. Sadly, accurate information about the extent of sexual violence is difficult to obtain because most of these crimes are seriously under-reported to law enforcement.
Staying Safe During COVID-19: 3 Tips For Victims Of Domestic Violence
The Coronavirus Pandemic is affecting nearly every aspect of our lives. Indeed, tensions remain high in our now limited everyday activities. Many survivors are forced to stay in close proximity with abusers making them susceptible to more abuse. Here are 3 of the most important safety tips to fall back on if this situation persists.