Warning Signs
Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is in a destructive relationship. It can even be difficult for a person to realize their relationship is not healthy. Those who are abused and those who abuse come from all the different backgrounds. Many people who are in a dysfunctional relationships do not tell others about it. So how would you know?
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Here are some signs to look for:
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Verbal Abuse.
He puts her down by calling her names, constantly criticizing her, provoking public or private humiliation, or making her feel crazy.
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Bruises and Injuries.
She often has bruises and injuries that she can't explain or makes weak excuses for them.
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Violent Temper.
He has threatened to hurt her, her children, family members, friends or pets. He blames her and other people for everything, and gets angry in a way that scares her or other people.
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Controlling Behavior.
He checks up on her constantly by asking about her whereabouts, calling her at work all day, checking her car mileage, and listening to her phone calls. He manages all the finances and monitors her spending.
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Extreme Jealousy.
He acts jealous or possessive. He accuses her of flirting or having affairs.
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Isolation.
He tells her not to see certain friends or family members, keeps her away from school or work and makes her stay home when she wants to go out.
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Emotional Changes.
She seems to be on the edge or seems to be fearful. Or, she becomes quiet when her husband or boyfriend is around.
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Behavior of the Children.
The children frequently get into trouble at school or are quiet and withdrawn and don't get along with the other children.
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Below is a list of organizations that may be helpful. These organizations can be contacted 24 hours from anywhere within the United States.
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Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network offers assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When calling the hotline, callers are automatically diverted to their area RAINN center where on-duty volunteers are available to answer questions, provide support, and suggest local resources.
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National Dating Abuse Hotline
1-866-331-9474
1-866-331-8453 TTY
The National Dating Abuse Helpline offers real time chat and one-on-one support from peer advocates trained to offer support, information, and advocacy to those in dating abuse relationships. The helpline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and offer translation services. Assistance via online chat services is available 4:00 pm - 2:00 am (CST).
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
https://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free, confidential services to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Calls are routed to the nearest crisis center.
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