Jeanius...my stomach turns when I think on how these people suffer...Unfortunately no matter what country you live in abuse happens.  We have strict laws in the U.S. , but it still goes on for years cuz people turn their heads and don't want to get involved...or their is no real proof...the abusers are sneaky, which is why I am grateful that there are shelters that will support woman  and children who need it.  Most victims are terrified to speak out and need someone to walk the walk with them.  Their abusers have spent years telling them they deserve it, and even though a part of them doesn't believe it, there is a part that does.  It will take years of help for them to heal...and most need help to get away.   As an empath, I can usually "feel" another's pain and am grateful I was able to help a few escape the bonds of abuse...but there are many more suffering in this world.  Keep your eyes  and hearts open for them.  Don't turn away...God put them in your path for a reason.  

swduryee :  I am SO proud of you!  It is not easy to live your life feeling like every day could be your last.  For most women in abusive relationships, the man treated them exceptionally well...and the abuse progresses so slowly, they work on your self-esteem, and emotions before they progress to physical abuse..that they are in so deep it is hard to get out when they finally realize OMG!  this man is psycho!  They are also REAL good at convincing others that the woman is nuts and they are saints for putting up with them.  The women are cut off from family and friends so they have no one to turn to.  Is this what you have seen as well?  That what doesn't kill you makes you strong..
There are protective shelters in every state, I am not sure where you live, if this helps you....?  But ..........
God Bless you and keep you and your's safe.

Domestic violence, also known as domestic abuse, spousal abuse, battering, family violence, and intimate partner violence , is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors by one partner against another in an intimate relationship such as marriage, dating, family, or cohabitation. Domestic violence, so defined, has many forms, including physical aggression or assault (hitting, kicking, biting, shoving, restraining, slapping, throwing objects), or threats thereof; sexual abuse; emotional abuse; controlling or domineering; intimidation; stalking; passive/covert abuse (e.g., neglect); and economic deprivation. Alcohol consumptio and mental illness can be co-morbid with abuse, and present additional challenges in eliminating domestic violence. Awareness, perception, definition and documentation of domestic violence differs widely from country to country, and from era to era.

Domestic violence and abuse is not limited to obvious physical violence. Domestic violence can also mean endangerment, criminal coercion, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, trespassing, harassment, and stalking.