In this Mini-Series, for this episode we dive deep into the painful reality of emotional abuse in families, especially in mother-child relationships. We speak with Jasmine (not her real name), who courageously shares her personal experience of enduring emotional abuse by her mother throughout her childhood and into adulthood.

TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast series discusses topics that may be distressing to some listeners, including child abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please prioritise your well-being and consider listening to a different episode or proceed with caution. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to take a break or seek support.

This episode sheds light on:

• What emotional abuse looks like in familial relationships
• The long-term psychological impact of emotional manipulation and control
• How children in emotionally abusive homes may act and how difficult it can be to identify abuse
• Practical signs to look for in children that may be silently suffering, and what we, as parents and community members, can do to offer support
• Jasmine's brave escape from her emotionally abusive home and how she reclaimed her life

Emotional abuse doesn't leave physical marks, but its effects can be equally, if not more, damaging than other types of abuse. This episode is a powerful reminder that we must pay attention to the hidden struggles children face and create environments where they feel safe, loved, and supported.

Let’s be real—we can’t change or cover everything in one podcast series. But what we can do is start the conversation. If this episode helps even one person recognise the signs of emotional abuse or points them toward safety, it’s worth it. It’s not about perfection, it’s about offering hope and shedding light on what’s often kept in the dark.

Support and Help Lines:

- 1800RESPECT: A national sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counseling service. Confidential and available 24/7. Call: 1800 737 732. Visit the Website

- Relationships Australia: Offers counseling, mediation, and support services. Call: 1300 364 277

- Men’s Referral Service: Support for men using family violence, offering confidential counseling and resources. Call: 1300 766 491

- Family Relationship Advice Line: Offers information and support for family separation, parenting arrangements, and more. Call: 1800 050 321

- Women’s Health Centres: Specialized support for women affected by domestic violence, including counseling and medical services. Contact your local center.

- In Immediate Danger: Call: Triple Zero (000)

Legal Protection Orders

If you need protection, apply for legal orders such as Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) or similar orders in your state or territory.

Tech Safety Tips

For technology-related abuse, contact WESNET or visit the eSafety Commissioner for guidance on how to protect yourself from tech-facilitated abuse.

Related Episodes:

• MINI SERIES (Episode 1): Domestic Violence & Lived Experience
• MINI SERIES (Episode 2): Coercive Control and Lived Experience
• MINI SERIES (Episode 3): Maternal Suicide and Lived Experience

References:

Statistics on Child Abuse in Australia

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