Abuse Articles

The effects of abuse, whether this takes the form of emotional, physical or sexual abuse, can be both severe and long-lasting. It's not just a question of the direct trauma inflicted, but of trust betrayed.

Treating the effects of abuse often requires a multifaceted approach, while every case requires individual consideration. However, learning more about the matter, including the experience others have had in achieving a better state of being, is often helpful. The below articles offer a good starting point for doing this.

What is abuse?

Abuse is the intentional harm of a person. The individual can be of any age, whether that’s a child, adult or older adult. Abuse is cruel, sometimes intentional and sometimes unintentional. Regardless of the intentionality, it’s harmful to people, and it needs to stop. If you suspect a loved one is being abused speak up. Don’t stay silent otherwise the pain could get worse and there could be dire consequences. Abuse is severe, and there are several forms of it. It’s essential to learn to recognize the different kinds of abuse so that you can get a person the help they need. The reality is that all abuse harms people and it needs to be stopped. We can fight against it by knowing the signs. Here are some different forms of abuse.

Physical abuse

Physical abuse is when another individual intentionally harms a person. It could include hitting, punching, or any physical violence. Often people who physically abuse others hurt them in places where it’s not visible so that their abuse is hidden, and the abuser has less of a chance of being caught.

Sexual abuse

Sexual abuse is the sexual exploitation of a person. The individual who is being abused did not consent to the sexual act, whether that’s intercourse, fondling or any sexual advance or action. Consent is essential when it comes to sexual abuse. If there is no consent, then the sexual act in violation of a person’s body. Sexual assault is wrong, and if someone is violating your body, it’s important to tell someone close to you so you can get help, and the perpetrator can stop hurting you and be brought to the authorities.

Emotional abuse

Emotional abuse occurs when a person is verbally attacking another individual, whether that’s a child or adult. They might be belittling the person or calling them names. Emotional abuse is tricky because it’s invisible. You can’t see the scars, but emotional abuse severely impacts a person’s self-esteem and ability to function. A person who is being emotionally abused doesn’t know how to fight back at times because their abuser convinces them that they’re helpless.

Medical abuse

Medical abuse is when a person conveys false information about another individual’s health, whether that’s a child or a senior. The person who is being medically abused isn’t receiving adequate healthcare because they’re deprived of it. Medical abuse is a form of neglect.

Neglect

Neglect can happen to someone of any age. It’s the failure to provide basic needs. Neglect often happens in child abuse cases, where the parents or guardians fail to provide for the child’s basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, education, or medical care. Neglect can happen to older adults as well.

Child abuse

Child abuse is the intentional or unintentional harm of a minor, a person under the age of 18. It’s heartbreaking, and it happens to many children. Forms of abuse include physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. Symptoms of child abuse include:

Withdrawal from activities with peers
Isolation
Depression
Aggressive behavior
Absent from school
Running away
Rebellious behavior
Self-harm
Suicide attempts

If you suspect a child is being abused it’s crucial to tell the authorities, such as child protective services. Do not stay silent; you could save a child’s life.

Domestic violence

Domestic violence or domestic abuse is a severe form of harm to a person. It can happen to people of all ages, adults or children. Sometimes partners abuse each other or parents abuse their children. Don’t be fooled about the word ‘violence.” The term all different form of abuse, whether it is violent or not. For example, mental and emotional abuse falls under the category of domestic violence because it’s hurting people. Domestic violence is a serious problem, and it includes all forms of abuse mentioned above. If you’re in a toxic domestic environment, it’s imperative to seek help. You can visit Safe Horizon or The Hotline for resources and support with domestic violence.

Online Counseling

Online counseling is an excellent place to talk about your feelings. If you’re in an abusive environment, your counselor can help you figure out how to get help. If you’ve experienced abuse or trauma in your past, a licensed online counselor at BetterHelp can support you in your healing journey. You don’t have to suffer alone. Search our network of experienced counselors and get help now.