Violence and social conflict

Violence takes many forms: domestic violence, gender-based violence, sexual violence, child abuse, bullying and community violence. Where violence is ongoing, safety comes first: support only works when the person is safe.

Social conflict — tension between groups, discrimination, hate speech, polarisation — may not be direct violence, but it creates insecurity, fear and alienation and weakens social ties.

Experiencing violence is never the person’s fault. Support is given with respect for the person’s own decisions and with their safety first.

• Constant alertness, fear, insecurity
• Shame, guilt, self-blame
• Sleep problems, nightmares, startling at sudden noises
• Anger, restlessness or emotional numbness
• Withdrawing from people and social life
• In children: falling school performance, withdrawal or aggressive behaviour

These are normal reactions to an abnormal event. For most people they ease noticeably within a few weeks, with safety, routine and social support.

• If someone who has experienced violence tells you: believe them, do not judge, do not press for details.
• Respect the person’s right to make their own decisions; do not decide for them.
• Help them make a safety plan: a safe place, a person to reach, important documents.
• If you suspect a child is being abused, do not investigate alone; report it to the competent authorities.
• In times of social tension, do not share unverified information or hate speech.
• Notice your own feelings and limits too.

• The person still lives where violence is ongoing
• Reactions last longer than four weeks or get worse
• Daily tasks become impossible
• Use of alcohol, medication or other substances increases
• There are thoughts of harming oneself or others — in this case, without waiting