Myth: Domestic violence only happens to women. Fact: While women are more likely to experience domestic violence, men can also be victims of domestic violence. Infact statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare show that while 1 in 6 women have experienced physical and or sexual violence so have 1 in 16 men.
Figures rise to 1 in 4 women when it comes to emotional abuse and 1 in 6 men.
Myth: Domestic violence always involves bruises or other physical injuries. Fact: Domestic violence can be subtle and may not leave any physical marks. Domestic violence can involve physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as other controlling behaviors. Including gaslighting which is designed to make the victim question their own judgement and sanity.
Myth: Domestic violence only happens in poor or uneducated families. Fact: Domestic violence can happen in any family, regardless of income, education, or background. However, some demographics are more vulnerable such as woman and Indigenous Australians.
Myth: Domestic violence is caused by stress, alcohol or drug abuse, or mental illness. Fact: While these factors may contribute to domestic violence, they are not the root cause. Domestic violence is a choice made by the abuser to exert power and control over their victim.
The real issue with domestic violence is one of power and control, not alcohol or drugs.
Myth: Domestic violence only happens in heterosexual relationships. Fact: Domestic violence can occur in any type of relationship, including same-sex relationships as cited in the 2015 report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies.
Myth: Leaving the relationship will end the abuse. Fact: Unfortunately, as cited in the Australian Bureau of Statistics almost 40% of Australian woman continued to experience violence from their partner while temporarily separated.
Myth: Domestic violence is a private matter and should not be interfered with. Fact: Domestic violence is a serious crime and should be reported to the authorities.
Support for Victims of Domestic Violence
If your life is in immediate danger call 000.
For counselling, advice, and practical support, here are some useful contacts:
https://www.1800respect.org.au or Ph 1800 737 732
The Domestic Violence Help Line Ph 1800 811 811
Lifeline crisis support/counselling Ph 13 11 14
No to Violence Men’s Referral Service Ph 1300 766 491
Relationships Australia Ph 1300 364 277
Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline Ph 1800 019 123
If you have experienced domestic and family violence, you may find that it still has an impact on many areas of your life even years later. At times like these, counselling may help you to recover from the trauma you have been through. To make an appointment with us please call 0468944513 or send us an email:
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