PHYSICAL ABUSE - something as seemingly ‘small’ as hitting you after getting drunk at the SU is physical abuse and it shouldn’t be ignored, because it could also lead to much more serious and ongoing abuse. No matter how many times someone hits you, no matter how much it hurts, or whether it leaves a mark, or is followed by apologies, it’s still abuse.
EMOTIONAL ABUSE - A relationship can be abusive even if no physical abuse is involved. Emotional abuse could be your partner using degrading or manipulative language with you, or threatening you with violence, to control or intimidate you. A common example of this type of abuse is gaslighting. This is when your partner will manipulate you into questioning your beliefs and perception of events and reality. It is important to not ignore when you think you are being emotionally abused or dismiss it on the grounds that ‘it’s not that bad,’ as it can still have a severe long-term effect on your mental health.
SEXUAL ABUSE - sexual abuse is any form of sexual act forced upon someone without consent. Consent can be denied through words or be conveyed through body language, such as pushing your partner away, or facial expressions, so sexual partners should regularly check in with one another. In a new relationship, checking in should be done verbally and without pressure. It is important to note that abuse can be perpetrated by any gender towards any gender, and not just male-on-female violence.