Separating a domestic violence survivor from the perpetrator can take years.

This is due to a trauma bond formed over the course of abuse.

This was highlighted by Human Rights lawyer Sabrina Khan-Sharma during a one-day seminar in Lautoka on Monday.

The seminar aims to help participants from the community identify warning signs of a person suffering domestic violence which may include isolation, inexplicable injuries and self-harm.

“Persons suffering from domestic violence tend to display low self-esteem, depression and high levels of anxiety. They’re pretty much in fight or flight mode given the exposure to abuse suffered over time,” she said.

She said the confusion and loss of self-identity results in the majority of these women forming a trauma bond with the perpetrator making it difficult for them to separate.

“Trauma bonding occurs when a person experiencing abuse develops an unhealthy attachment to their abuser. They may rationalise or defend the abusive actions, feel a sense of loyalty, isolate from others, and hope that the abuser’s behaviour will change,” she said.

She said a study conducted in Australia revealed that a woman will leave and return to her abuser anywhere from eight to 12 times before she leaves for good.

“This is largely due to the trauma bonding formed making it confusing and difficult to leave. The worst part is, the victim’s sense of self-worth is lost,” she said.

“I know this because I have experienced it so many years ago. I’m now on a mission to empower, educate and uplift the community to help create awareness and better our understanding of this horrendous crime.”

Ms Khan-Sharma said she found empowerment through her faith.

I found hope and a future through Jesus Christ. But not everyone is in a fortunate position. Which is why, we must continue to create awareness and better our understanding of this area,” she said.

Edited by Selita Rabuku

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