It can be incredibly confusing and overwhelming when you're questioning what's happening in your relationship. You might be experiencing a range of emotions, from fear and anxiety to confusion or even guilt. Please know that if you're asking this question, your feelings are valid, and you deserve support and clarity.

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Domestic violence isn't always physical. It's a pattern of behavior where one person in an intimate relationship uses power and control over another. This can manifest in many ways, often making you feel unsafe, isolated, or diminished.

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We understand that every experience is unique, and recognizing abuse can be a complex process, especially when emotions are involved. This isn't about blaming you or judging your situation. It's about providing information and support so you can understand what you're experiencing and make choices that are right for you.

 

What Does Domestic Violence Look Like?

 

Domestic violence can take many forms. If you recognize any of these patterns in your relationship, it's important to know that this is not okay, and help is available.

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Physical Abuse: This involves any intentional use of physical force that causes harm or injury, or makes you fear for your physical safety. Examples include:

• Hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, pushing, or biting.

• Strangling or choking.

• Throwing objects or destroying property.

• Restraining you or preventing you from leaving.

• Denying you access to medical care, food, or sleep.

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Emotional & Psychological Abuse: This type of abuse can be harder to identify but is deeply damaging. It erodes your self-worth and independence. Examples include:

• Constant criticism, name-calling, insults, or put-downs.

• Threats to harm you, your loved ones, pets, or property.

• Controlling what you wear, where you go, or who you see.

• Extreme jealousy or possessiveness.

• Blaming you for their abusive behavior.

• Gaslighting (making you question your sanity or perception of reality).

• Intimidation (angry gestures, yelling, punching walls).

• Isolation from friends, family, or support systems.

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Financial & Economic Abuse: This is about controlling your access to money or resources, making you financially dependent. Examples include:

• Withholding money or preventing you from working.

• Forcing you to account for every penny you spend.

• Running up debt in your name.

• Stealing your money or valuables.

• Preventing you from going to school or pursuing a career.

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Sexual Abuse: Any sexual act without your consent is abuse, even within a relationship. Examples include:​

• Forcing or coercing you into sexual acts you don't want.

• Pressuring you to engage in sexual activities you're uncomfortable with.

• Making derogatory comments about your body or sexuality.

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Digital & Technological Abuse: Using technology to control, harass, or monitor you. Examples include:

• Monitoring your phone calls, texts, or emails.

• Tracking your location without your consent.

• Sharing private photos or videos without your permission.

• Harassing you through social media or other online platforms.

• Damaging your devices or deleting your accounts.

 

You Are Not Alone. Your Feelings Are Valid.

If reading this page makes you feel a sense of recognition or unease, please know that you are not alone, and these feelings are important. Many survivors don't initially identify what they're experiencing as "abuse" because of the complexities of the relationship and the tactics used by the abuser.

It's not your fault. You did not cause this, and you cannot control another person's behavior. Healing and safety are possible, and we are here to walk alongside you.

 

We Are Here to Support You

Taking the first step can be the hardest, but remember, you deserve a life free from violence and control. Our agency offers confidential and compassionate support, no matter where you are in your journey.

• Need to talk? Our trained hotline specialists are here to listen without judgment.

• Looking for resources? We can connect you to emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and other vital services.

• Exploring options? We'll help you understand what steps you can take to enhance your safety and well-being.

Your safety and well-being are our top priority. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Call us at 618-235-0892.