Domestic Violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, gender or religion. Domestic Violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and affects people of all socioeconomic and backgrounds and education levels.
Consider the following questions if you are unsure you are in an abusive relationship.
- Do you apologize all of the time?
- Does your partner mistreat animals or children?
- Does your partner pressure you for sex?
- Does your partner belittle you and shame you?
- Does your partner control what you do, who you see or talk to?
- Does your partner check up on you constantly through phone calls or texting?
- Have you given up activities or interests that were important to you?
- Do you “walk on eggshells”?
- Do you rehearse what you say to avoid triggering reactions from your partner?
- Have you been abandoned or left in unfamiliar places?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be in an abusive relationship. You must first understand you are not alone and this is not your fault and then it is important to get support. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, consider calling the local domestic violence program in your area or the National Domestic Violence Hotline which is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Besides offering shelter, many domestic violence programs, such as The Safe Place, offer support groups. These groups offer a safe place to talk about your feelings and experiences. This is also an opportunity to meet and talk with other people who have had similar experiences.
