As a survivor of abuse, I can tell you that the damage to the body  
and the psyche that abuse creates can be severe..  For example, for  
years, when I have been able to, I have crossed the street rather  
than walk past a man coming toward me.  I now often wear sunglasses  
to make me "invisible."  i dress down in Cambridge and I blend in  
with students, another invisibility.  I am happy in class because  
everyone is sitting down and someone (else) is usually in control.   
Your students may be similar to me in this way.

Andrea