Some of the warning signs are as follows:
- There may be arguments and shouting.
- They feel they are walking on eggshells and are worried about what their partner will think or say.
- Changes in behaviour, demeanor or outward appearance.
- Become anxious or withdrawn. You may see them less or only with their partner or the abusive family member.
- They may be inundated with emails, messages, or social media posts.
- May seem inseparable from their phone or insistent that they check it very often or check-in with their partner.
- They may become less outgoing and may avoid people and conversations.
- May socialise less and make excuses for not coming to meet-ups or taking calls.
- May be isolated from friends and family.
- They may be prevented from attending appointments, cancel last minute, need to leave early to get back to their partner.
- Always being accompanied to appointments, never allowed to do things alone, being ferried around or picked up.
- May never want to leave home or avoid going back.
- They may not have access to their own money or be unable to do the things they used to. They may have to ask permission to spend money or be given a restrictive allowance.
- Constant jibes, criticism, being called names or being blamed for everything.
- Injuries, bruises, and marks - Injuries may be difficult to explain or leave marks and bruises that don’t seem to match the explanation. People may try to hide their injuries with clothing or make-up.
- Damage to property.
- Animal abuse.
- Stalking and harassment, including unwanted gifts, messages, surveillance and following someone.