GBV social worker
When a husband takes your salary, gives no money for food or the child, or controls every hryvnia you spend – that is economic violence, and you do not have to put up with it. Such actions deprive you of the right to manage your own life. In such cases, you can turn to specialists who will help you get psychological and legal support and, if necessary, temporary shelter. Remember: controlling money is a form of humiliation, not a sign of care.
GBV psychologist
Psychological violence is not always obvious at first. It is not only shouting or insults – it is also silent control, humiliation, being ignored, attempts to make you doubt yourself. You can recognise it as violence when you start living in constant fear, guilt or a feeling that “something is wrong with me”. You do not have to put up with it. Not even for the sake of the children – children learn not from your words but from what they see. They know when you are hurting. You can start small on your own: admit that this is not normal, stop making excuses for the abuser, find someone you trust and say everything out loud.
psychologist
Any touch or act without your consent, even if you are in a relationship or married, is sexual violence. Your boundaries have been violated if you feel fear or disgust after intimacy. Do not blame yourself! Responsibility always lies with the person who forced you. And don’t listen to those who say “keep quiet, it’s shameful” – silence protects the abuser, not you. Remember: you can always ask for help!
GBV coordinator
If you think physical violence only means being hit, you are wrong. It is also threats, blocking doors, forced confinement or being deprived of food. Living in tension because you never know when they will “snap again” is also violence. First of all, take care of your safety: think about where you can go, whom to call and where to leave the children if it happens again. Don’t believe the myth that “patience is a woman’s strength”. It is not strength – it is losing yourself. Contact the police, social services or shelters – help is available and it is free. Remember: violence does not go away if you silently forgive it.
