Understanding Abuse
Abuse is when someone intentionally harms, controls, or mistreats another person. It can happen in many types of relationships, including family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, or care situations.
Abuse is never the fault of the person experiencing it. It can have a serious impact on emotional wellbeing, confidence, and sense of safety.
Abuse can take many forms and may not always be physical.
Types of Abuse
Abuse can include:
- Emotional or psychological abuse – such as intimidation, manipulation, humiliation, threats, or controlling behaviour
- Physical abuse – any form of physical harm such as hitting, pushing, or restraint
- Sexual abuse – any unwanted sexual contact, pressure, or behaviour
- Financial abuse – controlling money, restricting access to funds, or forcing financial dependence
- Verbal abuse – insults, shouting, name-calling, or repeated criticism
- Neglect – failing to provide care, support, or basic needs (often in caring or family situations)
Abuse may involve one type or a combination of several.
What Abuse Can Feel Like
Experiencing abuse can affect how you think, feel, and behave. You may:
- feel afraid, unsafe, or “on edge”
- feel confused or unsure about what is happening
- blame yourself or feel guilty
- lose confidence or self-esteem
- feel isolated from others
- feel unable to speak out or ask for help
Abusive behaviour can sometimes happen gradually, making it harder to recognise over time.
Signs of Abuse
Abuse may show through patterns such as:
- feeling controlled or monitored by someone
- frequent criticism or humiliation
- fear of upsetting a particular person
- withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
- unexplained injuries or distress
- changes in behaviour, mood, or confidence
- financial restrictions or lack of independence
If you feel unsafe or unsure in a relationship, it is important to seek support.
Understanding Abuse
Abuse is about power and control. It is never justified, and it is never the victim’s fault.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported in their relationships and environment.
If you are experiencing abuse, it is important to know that help is available and you do not have to deal with it alone.
Reaching Out for Support
Talking about abuse can feel difficult or frightening, but support services are there to help you at your own pace.
A trained counsellor can help you:
- understand what is happening in your situation
- explore your feelings in a safe space
- look at options for support and safety
- rebuild confidence and emotional wellbeing
How We Can Help
At Kernos, we offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can talk about your experiences.
We can support you to:
- understand unhealthy or abusive patterns
- feel more confident and supported
- access further help and specialist services if needed
- take steps toward safety and recovery
You deserve to feel safe and respected.
Urgent Support (UK)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
You can also contact:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (free, 24/7)
- Childline – Call 0800 1111 or chat online (free, 24/7 for under 19s)
- NHS 111 – Call 111 for urgent support or advice
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline – Call 0808 2000 247 (free, 24/7)
- NHS – Contact your GP or local mental health services
