Effects of Abuse

The Effects of Abuse

Why do women stay in abusive relationships?

Economic dependence
Fear of physical danger
Fear of retaliation
Emotional dependence
Religious or cultural beliefs
Fear of losing children
Hope that he will change
Fear of involvement in court processes
Blames alcohol or some other problem for the above
Believes abuse is her fault
Believes she can make relationship work
Lack of perceived alternatives
Belief that violence is normal in a relationship
Ambivalent about life changes.

An abusive relationship affects you!

Apart from physical danger, abuse can lead to such mental health problems as:

Sleeplessness
Nervousness
Depression
Loss of appetite

Frequent abuse can destroy self-esteem and can lead you to:

Accept abuse as a normal aspect of a relationship.
Believe that you are responsible for the abuse.