Myth-busting - Abuse only counts if its physical.

When people hear the words domestic abuse, they often picture physical violence. Bruises. Broken bones. Visible injuries. That image is powerful, but it is incomplete.

Domestic abuse is not only physical.

Abuse is about power and control. Physical violence is one way that control can be enforced, but it is not the only way, and often it is not the first.

Many women experience coercive control long before any physical assault. This can include being monitored, isolated from friends and family, criticised constantly, controlled financially, or made to account for every movement. It can look like jealousy framed as love. It can sound like “I’m only doing this because I care about you.” Over time, it can leave a woman doubting her own judgement and walking on eggshells in her own home.

There may be no visible marks. That does not mean there is no harm.

Emotional and psychological abuse can have a profound impact on mental health, confidence and wellbeing. Financial abuse can trap women in unsafe situations. Threats, intimidation and manipulation can create fear without a hand ever being raised.

This myth can prevent women from seeking support. If there has been no physical violence, many women question whether what they are experiencing is “serious enough.” It is.

Abuse does not need to leave bruises to be real.

Recognising non physical forms of abuse is essential if we are serious about tackling domestic abuse in all its forms. Support is not reserved for those with visible injuries. It is there for women experiencing any form of control, fear or harm within a relationship.

We will continue to challenge myths like this each month, because understanding the full picture of domestic abuse is the first step in responding to it properly.