Signs of Abuse

If you’re afraid of your partner, that’s a big red flag. You may be scared to say what you think, to bring up certain topics, or to say no to sex. No matter the reason, fear has no place in a healthy relationship.

Be careful. There are warning signs to look out for because physical abuse isn’t always what happens first. An abuser will try to control your feelings and mind before beginning to hurt your body. This control can make you feel scared and confused. It can be hard to see a partner’s actions as abuse in the beginning.

It usually starts slowly with a criticism here and there, making you question yourself. The abuser will try to keep you away from family or friends. The abuser might say that they don’t really care about you. Don’t allow yourself to become cut off from friends and loved ones, because if you do, you will be trapped and the abuse could escalate.

Warning Signs of an Abusive Relationship

If you feel like you’re being abused, there’s a good chance you may be, and it’s worth getting help. Keep that in mind as you think about these signs.

Does the person you love…

  • Constantly keep track of your time?
  • Act jealous and possessive?
  • Accuse you of being unfaithful or flirting?
  • Discourage your relationships with friends and family?
  • Prevent or discourage you from working, interacting with friends or attending school?
  • Constantly criticize or belittle you?
  • Control all finances and force you to account for what you spend? (reasonable cooperative budgeting excepted)
  • Humiliate you in front of others? (including “jokes” at your expense)
  • Destroy or take your personal property or sentimental items?
  • Have affairs?
  • Threaten to hurt you, your children or pets? Threaten to use a weapon?
  • Push, hit, slap, punch, kick, or bite you or your children?
  • Force you to have sex against your will, or demand sexual acts you are uncomfortable with?
  • Get angry when you come back “late” from running errands or leave the house?
  • Wants to read your emails, texts?

Getting out of an abusive relationship isn’t easy, but we are here to help!

Help is out there, BUT you have to be ready to accept help when it arrives.

  • Call 911 first and allow the police to assist you!
  • Call 211 for a list of available services.

Visit our Who to Call page for more information.