A person with psychosis may have disturbing false beliefs (delusions) and/or hear, see upsetting things that others cannot hear or see (hallucinations) -other types of depressive disorders included in DSM-5 are disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (diagnosed in children and adolescents) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

First step is to become aware of domestic violence behaviour

These behaviours include : someone constantly checking up on you, calling or texting you, criticising or humiliating you, making personal decisions for you, restricting contact with friends and family, physically threatening or shouting at you. Noticing these signs of controlling behaviours early, within your intimate or family relationships, could make it easier to take action before the situation gets too serious.

Recognise that healthy relationships are based on equality and respect

When there is a power imbalance, it usually results in one person being frightened of the other and feeling unsafe in the relationship. Physical violence in intimate and family relationships is never acceptable. Once physical violence occurs in relationship, it can easily become a pattern. Sometimes the violent person will apologise and promise it will never happen again, but it usually does. It often becomes more frequent and more serious the longer the relationship continues.

Most domestic violence doesn’t occur in a one-off event

It usually develops over time and continues for years until there is a life-threatening injury or death, or the victim is able to leave. Statistics show that the most dangerous time for vitim is when they are trying to leave their partner.

Often victims of domestic violence find it difficult to ask for help

This might be because of threats of further violence, fears that they will not be believed, or hope that things will improve. It’s important to find someone you trust to confide in to support you throughout your journey. Remember that if you are a victim of domestic violence, it is not your fault. Every adult person is responsible for their own actions. The only way to stop domestic violence is for the perpetrator to change their behaviour.

Learning how to stop violent behaviour

It’s not clear why some people are violent, abusive, or controlling towards their partners or children. It may because they learned these behaviours from their parents, have fixed attitudes about controlling their partner, or they may have mental health issues. It’s not clear why some people are violent, abusive, or controlling towards their partners or children. It may because they learned these behaviours from their parents, have fixed attitudes about controlling their partner, or they may have mental health issues. If you are abusing your partner, child, or someone else in your life, it is important to know that change is possible. It begins with admitting that you are responsible for your actions. Behaviour change programs can help, and have helped many people stop their violent and controlling behaviours.

Another way to tackle such incidents of domestic violence is by talking to a mental health counsellor who is trained and expert in dealing with issues related to domestic violence. A counsellor can help you find ways to cope during such situations and help you take a better decision.