Domestic violence can be financial, sexual, physical, spiritual, or emotional (including verbal and psychological assaults). Any type of abuse leaves scars and bruises all over the soul, crushing — but not destroying — the spirit.
The consistent, continual pattern of domestic abuse is dizzying and confusing, especially since an abuser shows a “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” personality — he can be charming and sweet, and during those times the victim will feel overwhelming relief and gratitude, thereby creating a trauma bond to her abuser. Then he becomes “Mr. Hyde” again, exploding in abusive rage or covert criticism, employing manipulative tactics that are often more dangerous in their subtly.
This is such a confusing tightrope to have to navigate. I understand on not just a professional level, but on a personal one. And I can help.