Domestic violence is not the victim's shame

Domestic violence refers to violence that occurs in close relationships between current or former partners, family members or other close persons. It can be physical, mental, sexual, financial or digital violence. Violence is often not an isolated act but continues and worsens over time. Fear, shame and emotional ties to the abuser keep many victims from asking for help—allowing the violence to stay in the shadows. However, it is important to remember that the responsibility for violence always lies with the abuser. It is possible to survive violence, and various forms of help are available.

In Finland, domestic violence affects tens of thousands of people every year. In 2024, approximately 13,000 cases of domestic and intimate partner violence were reported to the authorities, with 74 percent of the victims being women and 26 percent men. There were approximately 3,000 underage victims. However, it is important to remember that these figures only reflect reported cases, and the actual number is much higher. According to various estimates, one in three or even one in two women and one in six men have experienced physical intimate partner violence or have been threatened with it during their lifetime. One third of children experience abuse, violence or are exposed to domestic violence in their homes.

Domestic violence knows no boundaries of age, gender, culture or financial standing. It can affect any one of us.

The consequences of violence are serious. For the victim, they can entail physical injuries, but also mental scars: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and sleep problems. Violence can impair functional capacity and cause chronic illnesses. Research indicates that people who have experienced violence use healthcare services up to twice as much as the rest of the population.

Violence is often a sign of deep problems in those who commit it. Underlying factors may include learned behavioural patterns, substance abuse problems or any difficulties with processing emotions. In Finland, there are services that help abusers stop using violence – those who seek help are often individuals who wish to break the cycle and preserve their relationships.

Yes, it is. Help is available, free of charge. Wellbeing services counties provide social welfare and healthcare services, and organisations play a vital role in assisting both victims and those who commit violence. Under the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the ‘Istanbul Convention’), Finland is required to take a holistic approach to preventing and tackling violence.

If you have experienced violence or fear it, you are not alone. Low-threshold assistance is available around the clock if needed. Breaking the cycle of violence is possible, and it can save lives.

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed on 25 November. In Western Uusimaa, you can participate in events such as "Valoa - ei väkivaltaa" in Espoo or in Helsinki, you can participate in a silent candlelight procession(external link).

You can find helpers in Western Uusimaa on the wellbeing services county's website. The wellbeing services county's own services include the following:

• In Espoo, Omatila helps victims of violence recognise the signs of domestic and intimate partner violence, cope with what they have experienced and break free from violence. The professionals at the unit offer counselling, advice and professionally directed peer-support groups. When needed, the unit can arrange safe housing or sheltered accommodation to break the cycle of violence. The unit also works with women who use violence in their intimate relationships and want to stop. 
• Mental health and substance abuse services for adults and young people aged 13–17. 
• Mental health and substance abuse services are offered at walk-in clinics in several municipalities of the wellbeing services county. 
• Social and crisis emergency services provide help in sudden crisis situations when you need immediate assistance from authorities. 
• In life- or health-threatening situations, call 112.

You can find services and contact details of organisations offering help in Western Uusimaa on our website: Apua välivaltaan  (in Finnish and Swedish)