What Should I Do If I Am Being Abused by My Partner?

Abuse in a relationship is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. If you are being abused by your partner, it is important to recognize the signs and seek help.

Recognizing Abuse

Abuse can be difficult to recognize, especially if it is happening gradually. However, there are some common signs that you may be in an abusive relationship:

• Your partner is physically violent towards you, such as hitting, kicking, or pushing you.
• Your partner emotionally abuses you, such as name-calling, belittling you, or isolating you from your friends and family.
• Your partner sexually abuses you, such as forcing you to have sex or engaging in other unwanted sexual contact.
• Your partner financially abuses you, such as controlling your access to money or preventing you from working.

What To Do If You Are Being Abused

If you are being abused by your partner, it is important to take action to protect yourself. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Recognize the Abuse

• Be honest with yourself about the situation. Admit that you are being abused.
• Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about what is happening.
• Keep a record of the abuse, including the dates, times, and incidents that occur.

2. Create a Safety Plan

• Identify safe places to go in case of an emergency, such as a friend's house or a domestic violence shelter.
• Pack a bag with essentials, such as clothes, money, and important documents.
• Share your safety plan with a trusted person.

3. Seek Legal Help

• Contact a domestic violence hotline or legal aid organization for assistance.
• File for a restraining order or protection order against your abuser.
• Consider pressing charges against your abuser.

4. Get Emotional Support

• Talk to a therapist or counselor who specializes in domestic violence.
• Join a support group for victims of abuse.
• Practice self-care activities, such as exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques.

5. Build a Support Network

• Reach out to friends, family, or a domestic violence shelter for support.
• Find a safe place to stay if needed.
• Seek financial assistance if necessary.

Resources And Help

There are many resources available to help victims of abuse. Here are some helpful links:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE
• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE You can also get help online at RAINN's website: https://www.rainn.org

Abuse is a serious issue that can have lasting effects on the victim. If you are being abused by your partner, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to help you break the cycle of abuse and rebuild your life.

If you are not being abused, you can still help by educating yourself and others about the issue. Talk to your friends and family about abuse and let them know that you are there for them if they need help. You can also volunteer your time at a domestic violence shelter or other organization that helps victims of abuse.