• Definition: Any intentional act that causes physical harm or injury to on a women's body.

• Examples: Hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, pushing, choking, using weapons, preventing her from eating, sleeping, or seeking medical care .

• Warning Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts or burns.  Wearing long sleeves or heavy makeup to hide injuries.  Fearful or anxious behavior around her partner.

• Definition: Words or actions that damage a woman’s self-esteem, confidence, or sense of safety.

• Examples: Constant criticism, insults, humiliation, manipulation, gaslighting/silent treatment, blaming her for the abuser's behavior, isolating her from friends and family.

• Warning Signs: Low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, withdrawal from loved ones, apologising excessively, definding her partner's actions, difficulty making decisions without approval.

• Definition: The use of harsh or demeaning words to control, intimidate, or hurt another person.

• Examples: Name calling, shouting, swearing, threats of harm or abandonment, belittling her beliefs, bedy or intelligence.

• Warning Signs: Appears tense, nervous or fearful during conversations.  Avoids speaking openly or expressing opinions.  Flinches at loud voices or angry tones.

• Definition: Controlling a woman’s access to money, resources, or employment to make her dependent.

• Examples: Taking her salary or bank cards.  Refusing to let her work or study. Forcing her to account for every expense.  Creating debt in her name without consent.

• Warning Signs: No control over finances or personal accounts. Asking for money frequently or hiding purchases. Unable to meet basic needs despite working.

• Definition: Any sexual act or contact forced upon a woman without her full and free consent.

• Examples: Rape or attempted rape. Unwanted touching or sexual comments. Forcing sex after physical violence or threats. Coercion through guilt, fear or manipulation.

• Warning Signs: Fear of intimacy. Physical pain, bruising or infections. Sudden changes in mood or self-care. Avoiding discussions about relationships.

• Definition: The use of technology or social media to control, stalk, humiliate, or threaten a woman.

• Examples: Tracking her phone or location. Sharing privage images without her consent. Sending threatening messages or harassment online. Controling her use of social media.

• Warning Signs: Fear of checking phone or social meda. Sudden disappearance from online platforms. Unusual monitoring by partner or ex-partner.

• Definition: Misusing faith or religious beliefs to manipulate, shame, or control a woman.

• Examples: Twisting scripture to justify abuse or submission. Preventing her from worshipping or attending church.  Forcing her to follow beliefs against her will.

• Warning Signs: Fear of spiritual punishment. Isolation from faith commuity. Loss of confidence in her relationship with God.

• Definition: Restricting a woman’s interaction with others to make her dependent on the abuser.

• Examples: Stopping her from visiting family or friends. Monitoring calls, messages or social media. Moving her far away from support networks.

• Warning Signs: Rarely seen in public or at family events. Sudden withdrawal from community activities. Seems anxious about leaving the home.

🌿 YOU ARE NOT ALONE

If you recognise yourself in any of these descriptions — know this:

Help is available. Healing is possible. You are worthy of safety, love, and respect.

we stand with survivors of abuse by offering:

• Confidential counselling
• Emergency support and referrals
• Awareness and empowerment programmes