Domestic Violence and Abusive Relationships
Domestic violence and abusive relationships should not happen to anyone, ever. The sad truth is that it does; it happens to thousands of Americans every day. And it is important to recognize that domestic violence and abusive relationships go hand-in-hand.
It is not always easy to identify that you are a victim of domestic violence and in abusive relationships but, abuse can come in many different forms and a person can easily become jaded to the fact that the relationship is abusive after they have been around it for a long time. So how do you know that you are in an abusive relationship? Is it the physical and domestic violence? Not always.
An abusive relationship may be romantic and sweet especially at the beginning. But there is immediacy, and what it really is, is a need to control.
For example, your partner brings you flowers to work and tells you he made reservations at your favorite restaurant but when you tell him you can’t make it because you have other plans he becomes angry and insulting. Seconds later, he will usually say he was kidding and then say he loves you. These reactions are not your fault and they also aren’t what make a healthy relationship. They are signs you may be in an abusive relationship.
People who are victims of domestic violence abuse often believe that they are to blame for their situation and nothing could be further from the truth. An abuser will blame others rather than assume blame themselves.
If you are being cut off from friends or family by the person you are in a relationship with you may be in an abusive relationship. If you can’t go where you want without permission you are also being isolated. If you are a victim, however, you know that it is not that simple. Perhaps it is fear that is keeping you close. You do not know what your abuser will do if you leave. Maybe you are worried about financial insecurity or the safety of your children. Whatever the case, ending a relationship is not easy. And victims of domestic violence are often isolated from their friends and family members. You may not feel like there is anywhere to turn for help.
Even if you haven’t been physically abused, fear can erode self-confidence and even compromise your health. It is very common for victims of domestic abuse and abusive relationships to minimize the severity of the situation however the disturbing signs of an abusive relationship need to be recognized. This can make it easier to move on after domestic abuse and abusive relationships.
Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence and Abusive Relationships: There is help
Maybe you have been abused. Maybe it happened just once. Maybe you work next to someone who is the victim of domestic violence. Whatever the case, there is help out there. Here are some resources for victims of domestic violence and abusive relationships.
National hotlines can direct you to resources in your area. Every state has a system in place to provide resources for victims of domestic violence.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
The hotline is staffed 24 hours a day by trained counselors who can provide crisis assistance and information about shelters, legal advocacy, health care centers, and counseling.
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
1-800-787-3224 (TDD)
If you or a loved one is the victim of domestic abuse and abusive relationships please call toll-free 1-888-672-4435