Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
It can happen to anyone
Domestic Violence and sexual assault are serious problems that have been happening for centuries. They affect millions of people in the United States every year, most often women. Domestic violence and sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of employment or educational level, race or ethnic background, religion, marital status, physical ability, age or sexual orientation.
It is not your fault
If you are being abused, you may feel confused, afraid, angry, or trapped. All of these emotions are normal responses to abuse. You may also blame yourself for what is happening. But no matter what others might say, you are never responsible for abusive actions. Batterers choose to be abusive. No one deserves to be battered.
You or someone you know may be in a domestic violence situation.
These questions may help you decide whether there is abuse in your situation.
Does the individual ever…
- Hit, kick, shove or injure you?
- Use weapons/objects against you or threaten to?
- Force or coerce you to engage in unwanted sexual acts?
- Threaten to hurt you or others, have you deported, disclose your sexual orientation or other personal information?
- Control what you do and who you see in a way that interferes with your work, education or other personal activities?
- Steal or destroy your belongings?
- Constantly criticize you, call you names or put you down?
- Make you feel afraid?
- Deny your basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, or medical and physical assistance?
Domestic Violence, or battering, is a pattern of abusive behaviors that are used to control others. Battering can include physical, sexual and emotional abuse as well as other controlling behaviors. Without help, domestic violence and sexual assault often continues to get more severe over time. It can sometimes become deadly.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, call us today. We are here for you 24/7/365.
Please know that you are not alone.
To find safety and support for you, your family, your friend, or relative, call today.
(517) 278-SAFE (7233)
