 The concept of " actual bodily harm " is wide . Almost all injuries are included – for example , bruising or skin abrasions . Injuries are not included if they are " transient or trifling " , but this did not cover even momentary unconsciousness . The wide range of injuries give prosecutors considerable discretion about which charge to bring against a defendant . Psychological injury is included , so long as it forms a recognised medical condition . Mere fright or anxiety is insufficient for actual bodily harm . It is limited only by the need for an actual assault or battery to have taken place . 
