Violence and abuse
If you are or have been subjected to violence in a close relationship, or have been subjected to honour-related violence, you may need support and help. Violence can take many forms and you don’t need to have been physically injured to seek help.
Violence can also be physical, sexual or psychological in the form of verbal abuse, control and threats. Material and/or financial abuse are other forms of violence and mean that someone destroys your possessions or has control of your assets. Violence can also be directed against pets.
It’s never your fault if you are subjected to violence. It’s also not your fault if you live in a relationship with elements of violence and abuse. It’s common for victims to blame themselves, but it’s important to know and understand that it’s always the person who commits the act of violence who is responsible. You have the right to receive support if you are affected.
Different reactions to violence and abuse
People react differently when they are subjected to violence. How we are affected depends, among other things, on previous life experiences, mental health and life situation. Reactions may come immediately after a serious event or they may come later, sometimes long after the threat and violence has ceased. They can also vary in intensity and scope.
Reactions can be both physical and psychological. If you are or have been a victim, you may become depressed, experience anxiety or have feelings of unreality and emptiness. Sleep, appetite and concentration can be affected. You can have nightmares and memories of what happened, which themselves can be stressful and frightening. If you live or have lived in a violent relationship, you may have been affected by a longer process of psychological breakdown.
Do you want to make a police report?
You can make a report directly to the police, for example by calling or going to a police station. A police report can be made immediately after abuse or several years later. You don’t need to be completely sure that what happened to you is a crime, you will be helped to decide on that when you make the report.
When should you seek help?
Help is available if you are or have been the subject of violence or abuse and feel the need for counselling or psychological treatment in order to begin to feel better. You can turn to the student health service for guidance and advice on where to seek help. You can also contact your local healthcare centre or seek help via 1177.se.