Editorial
Speak out and break the cycle of domestic abuse
'You're only as sick as your secrets" is a line from a 12-step programme to overcome alcohol addiction. It is just as apt a line for a society where domestic and sexual abuse are rampant but mostly out of the public eye.
The 16 days of activism against violence - which we observe every year - means it no longer surprises us to learn that women who have suffered domestic abuse are significantly more likely to have health problems and suffer from substance abuse.
By now we know that the trauma shatters the victim's sense of self and keeps her (for it is usually a her) trapped in the abusive situation, that she will employ strategies to cope with the abuse rather than extricating herself. We know that children who see their mothers abused are vulnerable to low self-esteem and abusive relationships of their own.
Victims keep their experiences secret for many reasons - they may blame themselves, or feel shame and isolation. They may believe they are damaged goods or deserve the abuse, or that no one will believe them. They may fear harm to their reputation or public image. We know these things, yet we cannot break the cycle...
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