Understanding domestic violence and abuse

Do you feel unsafe or afraid of a partner, ex, or family member? 

Learn the signs and types of abusive relationships, and find out how Saoirse can help you.
  • Domestic violence and abuse is the abusive control of one person over another.

  • It occurs across all cultures, backgrounds, ages and genders.

  • Everyone’s experience is different, including the type and length of abuse. But one thing is always true: it is never your fault.
Woman looking upset, man in background on his phone

12 warning signs your partner is abusive

Are you in an abusive relationship? Learn the red flags that indicate your partner may be abusing you.

Hostile looking man leaning towards woman

Types of domestic violence & abuse

Understand what different types of abuse look like — physical, emotional, financial, sexual, coercive control.

What is coercive control?

Coercive control is a pattern of controlling, threatening or abusive behaviour by a partner or ex-partner. Coercive control is a criminal offence in Ireland.

What is technology-facilitated abuse?

Is someone using technology to keep tabs on you, contact you when you don't want them to, or threaten you? 

What is gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where someone repeatedly makes you doubt your own memory, judgement, or sense of reality.

What is post-separation abuse?

Some abusive ex-partners try to hold onto control through shared children, family court, finances or mutual contacts.

Upset senior woman, man sitting with back to her

Power & control tactics used by abusers

Understand how abusers gain control over their victims. We explain the tactics connected to physical and sexual violence.

Woman crying, man with folder arms sitting beside her

What is the 'cycle of violence'?

Domestic violence follows a pattern of repeated, escalating behaviours called the 'cycle of violence.'

What does a healthy relationship look like?

Discover the everyday signs of a healthy relationship and what it can look like when they're missing.

Woman phoning domestic violence helpline

Get support from Saoirse

Abuse takes many forms. So does our support. We provide free, confidential support for anyone impacted by domestic violence or abuse.

Two women talking

I'm concerned about someone else

Find out how you can help a friend or family member who might be being abused.

No judgement. No pressure. Just support.

Call us for free any time on 1800 911 221


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