Family and Domestic Violence
In intimate and family relationships, certain behaviours may be used by a person to gain or maintain power and control over another. (If you, or someone else is in immediate physical danger, call 000)
In intimate and family relationships, certain behaviours may be used by a person to gain or maintain power and control over another.
(If you, or someone else is in immediate physical danger, call 000)
While there may be many reasons why someone engages in these behaviours, it is never acceptable. Recognising this and seeking help is a sign of strength and a commitment to creating a safer and healthier environment for yourself and your loved ones.
Types Of Behaviours
Behaviours can include but are not limited to:
- Physical: Hitting, slapping, shoving, grabbing, or any other form of physical harm.
- Emotional: Undermining an individual’s sense of self-worth through constant criticism.
- Sexual abuse: Coercing or attempting to coerce any sexual contact without consent.
- Economic: Controlling or restricting a person’s access to financial resources.
- Psychological: Intimidation, threats or forced isolation from family and friends.
Impact on Individuals and Families
People experiencing Family and domestic violence often suffer from significant physical health issues, including injuries and chronic health problems. The mental health impacts are equally severe, with many victims experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health disorders. Victims often feel fear, shame, guilt, and have low self-esteem, significantly impacting their daily functioning and quality of life.
Children exposed to family and domestic violence can have significant emotional, psychological, and developmental challenges. They may experience intense fear, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to long-term mental health issues such as PTSD. These children often struggle with feelings of low self-worth and may exhibit behavioural problems like aggression or withdrawal, impairing their social development and making it difficult to form and maintain healthy future relationships.
Getting Support
Are you worried about your own behaviour?
If you are worried about your behaviour, it’s important to know that support is available. Recognising the issue is the crucial first step, and there are services that can provide you with the help you need to change harmful behaviours.
Visit No to Violence or call 1300 766 491 for telephone counselling, information and referral service for men wanting to change their behaviour.
Contact the National Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service by visiting 1800RESPECT or call 1800 737 732 for free counselling, information and support.
If you are a veteran, you can access counselling support through Open Arms - Veterans and Families Counselling. Visit their website or call 1800 011 046 at any time.
Visit MensLine Australia or call 1300 78 99 78
If You Are Experiencing Family and Domestic Violence yourself
Remember; always call 000 if you, or someone else, is in immediate danger.
Contact the National Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service by visiting 1800RESPECT or Call 1800 737 732 for free counselling, information and support.
Relationships Australia provides a range of services for people worried about family and domestic violence. Visit here to find out what is available near you.
If you are a veteran or veteran’s family member, you can also access counselling support through Open Arms - Veterans and Families Counselling. Visit their website or call 1800 011 046 at any time.
Additional Information
& Support
You can also try one of the following free and confidential support services: