Programs & Services > Next Steps > Issues you may be facing
Challenge.Learn.Change
Issues you may be facing
- What to do if you have been told that you are abusive
- Do you have a problem with alcohol or substance abuse?
- Are you experiencing symptoms of depression?
- Were you physically or sexually abused as a child?
What to do if you have been told that you are abusive
The first step is to talk about what you are feeling with a professional counsellor - someone who will listen to you and help you find alternatives to abusive behaviour. Also, be honest with yourself. Think about what your partners and others have been saying to you.
Make a list of the things you do when you are dealing with conflict in your relationship and ask yourself whether or not these are abusive actions. It isn't easy to hear criticism so watch for defensive behaviour on your part in an attempt to minimize or deny the opinions you receive from those people who are concerned about your actions.
Talk to someone you trust. Someone in addition to your counsellor. Tell them how you are feeling and what you have done. It will be hard to break the silence, but it is crucial to help you move forward.
Do you have a problem with alcohol or substance abuse?
If you have been told you have a substance or alcohol abuse problem, or you would like more information on addiction treatment options call the Metro Addiction Assessment Referral Service (MAARS). This agency offers telephone and face to face consultations and assessments, brief counselling, referrals and professional consultation.
Metro Addiction Assessment Referal Service (MAARS)
175 College Street
Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1P7,
416-599-1448
Are you experiencing symptoms of depression?
Unknowingly, many men who abuse their partners experience symptoms of depression. But depression is not to be seen as an excuse for abusing your partner. You may be depressed if you are experiencing some or all of the following symptoms:
- Constant fatigue
- Difficulty falling asleep, restless or broken sleep
- Trouble with concentration and decision making Loss or increase in appetite
- A loss of interest in sex
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- A loss of interest in socializing with family friends
If you think you may be suffering from depression, consider discussing this with a counsellor, or talk to your family doctor.
Were you physically or sexually abused as a child?
Most men may find it extremely difficult to talk about past abuse that has happened to them. However, not discussing it doesn't resolve the issue and you may find that it is beginning to affect you and your family. If you think you may have been abused as a child, consider discussing it with a counsellor.
To arrange for counselling, please call our Service Access Unit, Tel: 416.595.9618
