Domestic abuse is more than physical and can take many forms.
This according to Ms Rayhab Motsoane, a social worker at Ikhaya Lethemba, shelter for survivors of violence.
Ms Motsoane was speaking at the August MAD Domestic Watch meeting last Wednesday.
Ms Motsoane said women should speak up against abuse.
Domestic workers and gardeners alike attended the meeting which takes place on a monthly basis at the Methodist Church in Bedfordview.
Ms Motsoane said women are often subjected to emotional, physical, sexual and financial abuse.
She said verbal abuse is also prevalent in communities.
“People can be abused by their partners or by employers. Children can be abused by parents and vice versa. It is important that our women today be educated on what they can do when suffering abuse,” she said.
She said possessive and controlling behaviour are some of the early symptoms.
“Abusers often say they are being abusive out of love, but don’t be fooled by such an excuse. Once an abuser gets away with it the first time, they will continue doing it,” said Ms Motsoane.
She said victims of abuse should report it to the police and leave the situation.
“Find a safe house to stay in while you look for another place to live. Victim Support Unit in police stations are always available to assist. At Ikhaya Lethemba we accommodate adult and child victims of domestic violence and sexual assault,” said Ms Motsoane.
