Physical abuse

If someone deliberately hurts or injures you or another person, it’s physical abuse. You might be told that it’s your fault, or that they’re punishing you. But nothing makes it okay for someone to hurt you. Abuse is never your fault.

 

Physical abuse can leave you with more than marks on your body. It can lead to you feeling:

• frightened or anxious
• Depressed and Sad
• Lonely and isolated
• Like you want to self-harm or run away
• angry
• Worthless or like you have no self-esteem
• Unable to eat normally
• Unable to sleep properly
• Numb or like you've been cut off from your feelings
• Unable to concentrate at school or college
• Guilty and worried that it is your fault - even though it isn't

These feelings can last long after your injuries have healed. And this can stop you living your life and enjoying yourself. But you can get help and support.

Talking about abuse is difficult. But it helps. Telling someone what’s going on means you don’t have to deal with it on your own. Most importantly, telling someone can help stop the physical abuse. It also means you can start to live a life that’s happier and safer.

• Childline
• Young Minds Crisis Messenger