Understanding the Problem:
One in three women and one in four men have been victims of physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
Domestic violence is abusive behavior – emotional, psychological, physical, or sexual – one person in an intimate relationship uses to control the other. Abuse in a relationship is any act used to gain power and control over another person. People who are abused physically are often isolated. Their partners tend to control their lives to a great extent as well as verbally degrade them.
If you are abused, you might…
-Believe it’s your fault.
-Feel angry, sad, lonely, depressed, or confused.
-Worry about what might happen next.
-Feel unable to talk to friends or family.
-Be afraid of getting hurt.
-Feel helpless to stop the abuse.
-Feel protective of your partner.
-Feel threatened, humiliated, or ashamed.
-Have low self-esteem from the abuser putting you down.
-Feel anxious or trapped.
These are normal reactions to abuse. You are not alone.
If someone you know is being abused…
-Ask “Are you okay?”
-Encourage your friend to seek help.
-Remind them “This isn’t your fault.”
-Listen and show support.
-Document the abuse. Keep photos, screenshots, a journal, police reports, and hospital records.
-If you witness the abuse, speak up if you feel safe, and get help.
-Call The Retreat’s 24-hour hotline at 631-329-2200.
