How abuse affects you

What is Abuse?

Abuse comes in several different forms, and abuse can affect people in several ways.  First, let’s define the types of abuse.  There’s physical abuse, pushing, hitting, slapping, kicking, biting, punching, etc.  There’s emotional abuse, including gaslighting, name-calling, financial abuse, keeping someone from their children, isolating someone from their family or friends, etc.  Then, there’s sexual abuse.  This can include but is not limited to non-consensual sex, unwanted touch or sexual advances, or rape. 

Effects of Abuse

The effects of abuse are not clear-cut.  No two people who are abused will look or feel the same.  Some people have visible signs of abuse such as bruising or scars, while others suffer from flashbacks or nightmares that the outside world cannot see by just looking at them.  Visible signs of abuse may include bruising, broken or fractured bones, scarring, cuts, black eyes, hearing loss, brain damage, blindness, or missing teeth.  Effects of abuse that others cannot see may include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, acting out, risky behavior, substance abuse, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity, Disorder, paranoia, chronic pain, fear, lack of self-esteem, fear of relationships, anger, frustration, or avoiding people.

How to Get Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there is help.  If you are in immediate danger or the person you know is in immediate danger, dial 911 or your local emergency number. If a minor (someone under the age of 18) is experiencing abuse, or you suspect they are experiencing abuse, please call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline to get local resources for Child Protective Services in your state.  Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline can be reached by phone call or text at 1-800-4-A-CHILD or their website through chat:  https://www.childhelp.org/childhelp-hotline/.  You can report abuse anonymously through Child Protective Services unless you are a mandated reporter, such as a counselor, social worker, or teacher.  If the abuse you are experiencing is intimate partner violence or domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-HELP or visit their website to chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week www.thehotline.com. 

Talking to a counselor is another way to get assistance.  Counselors trained in trauma counseling can help you find specific resources you may need.  They also can help you work through complex emotions and situations as they arise.