When we talk about domestic violence, physical violence is often the first thing that comes to mind. But abuse doesn't always leave a visible mark.

It can look like a partner who constantly monitors your movements, controls who you speak to, threatens you when you disagree, humiliates you in private, or makes you feel afraid of what might happen if you say no.

These behaviours are not automatically harmless because they don't involve hitting. Emotional abuse, intimidation and coercive control can affect a person's confidence, independence and sense of safety.

A relationship doesn't have to involve physical violence before it becomes abusive.

Understanding this matters because people cannot recognise what they have been taught to dismiss.

Domestic violence deserves to be taken seriously, even when there are no bruises to show for it.