Support for Abuse

Abuse in ENM dynamics can be hard to identify, and even harder to share. Survivors often face unique challenges in being understood or validated because of the misconceptions surrounding non-monogamous relationships.​ One of the most significant barriers for survivors in ENM relationships is minimisation. Survivors may fear that:

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• Their experiences will be dismissed or invalidated because others don’t understand ENM or see it as legitimate.

• They’ll face stereotypes, such as the assumption that ENM inherently causes harm, jealousy, or chaos, instead of recognising the abuse as the issue.

• People unfamiliar with non-monogamy focus on their relationship structure rather than the harmful behaviours they’ve endured.​

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This lack of understanding can make it difficult to speak out, seek help, or even feel justified in naming the abuse. Survivors deserve to be supported, heard, and believed—no matter their relationship structure.

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If you’re navigating the intricacies of abuse in an ENM relationship, know that you are not alone. The LGBT Switchboard offers compassionate, informed support for people of all relationship types.​