Teens (13 to 17 Years)
How could domestic violence affect you?
Everyone responds differently to domestic violence.
There may be many fears or worries that people experience as a result. People who are abused may be worried that:
They are to blame for the abuse
They should try harder to make it stop
No one will believe them
If they seek help, they will get into trouble
If they get help, they will break up their family
Violent or abusive relationships can have short and long-term effects on a developing teenager.
People who have been abused may:
Feel anxious or depressed
Have difficulty concentrating
Do worse at school
Be wary of adults
Think about suicide
Have problems forming relationships
Have trouble sleeping
Self-harm
People who have been abused may also:
People who have been abused may:
Avoid social situations or avoid home
Engage in unhealthy behaviours like smoking, drinking, using drugs
Find it hard to trust people
Have low self-esteem
Feel angry
Display aggressive behaviours
Have flashbacks to violent incidents
It is not your fault!
As we’ve listed, there are many ways that experiencing domestic violence in any form can affect you. It’s important that you remind yourself that you are not to blame.
Check out our ‘How can someone in these situations get help’ section to see the different ways you can get safe help.
Cayman Kids Helpline provides a safe space, and general guidance - this is not a substitute for clinical advice or treatment.
The Kids Helpline is proudly brought to you by the Alex Panton Foundation