Total Health Guidance

by Yolmar Chacon

It is not always easy to tell if a new relationship will become abusive. Domestic violence signs slowly appear and get more intense with time. Although, domestic violence can look different in relationships, power and control is a main aspect involved in these relationships. Abusers can establish or gain power and control by using several methods such as emotional abuse, intimidation, isolating partner from friends and family and blaming, minimizing, and denying their abuse. These actions happen over time and helps condition victims, making them feel stuck and dependent on their abuser.

Here are 5 signs you may be experiencing domestic violence:

1. Telling you that you never do anything right.
2. Intimidating you through threatening looks or actions.
3. Insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of other people.
4. Insulting your parenting or threatening to harm or take away your children or pets.
5. Controlling finances in the household without discussion, including taking your money or refusing to provide money for necessary expenses.

If you or anyone you know suspects they are in an abusive relationship and need help, please call the National Domestic Violence line at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Remember: no one deserves to experience abuse of any kind—for any reason.  And every type of abuse is serious.