Effects of Abuse

How can Abuse Affect Me?

The effects of abuse don't stop once the hitting, yelling or put-downs stop. Here are some of the results of abuse:

• low self-esteem
• feelings of helplessness
• self blame and guilt
• depression
• anger
• self-destructive behaviour
• anxiety / stress
• difficulty sleeping or eating

How Does Abuse Affect Society?

Violence and abuse adds costs to society in the form of higher taxes, increased demands on health and social service agencies and lost production.