National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE (7233) or 800-787-3224 (TDD)
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is when one person in a relationship purposely hurts another person physically or emotionally. Domestic violence is also called intimate partner violence. People of all races, education levels, and ages experience domestic abuse. In the United States, more than 5 million women are abused by an intimate partner each year. Women also can be abusers, and of course, intimate partner violence also occurs within same-sex couples.
Domestic violence includes:
- Physical abuse like hitting, shoving, kicking, biting, or throwing things
- Emotional Abuse like yelling, controlling what you do, or threatening to cause serious problems for you
- Sexual abuse like forcing you to do something sexual you don't want to do
Here are some key points about domestic and intimate partner violence:
- If you are in immediate danger, you can call 911. It is possible for the police to arrest an abuser and to escort you and your children to a safe place.
- Often, abuse starts as emotional abuse and then becomes physical later. It's important to get help early.
- Your partner may try to make you feel like the abuse is your fault. Remember that you cannot make someone mistreat you. The abuser is responsible for his or her behavior. Abuse can be a way for your partner to try to have control over you.
- Violence can cause serious physical and emotional problems, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. It's important to try to take care of your health. And if you are using drugs or alcohol to cope with abuse, get help.
- There probably will be times when your partner is very kind. Unfortunately, abusers often begin the mistreatment again after these periods of calm. In fact, over time, abuse often gets worse, not better. Even if your partner promises to stop the abuse, make sure to learn about hotlines and other ways to get help for abuse.
- An abusive partner needs to get help from a mental health professional. But even if he or she gets help, the abuse may not stop. Being hurt by someone close to you is awful. Reach out for support from family, friends, and community organizations.
Getting Help for Domestic Abuse
If you are being abused, get help. The longer the abuse goes on, the more damage it can cause. You are not alone. There are people who will believe you and who want to help.
Consider these steps if you are in an abusive situation:
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or leave.
If you are hurt, go to a local hospital emergency room.