Abusive relationships rarely begin as physical violence against a person, but emotional or mental abuse is still abuse. We want to help you recognize the signs so you or your friends can get out of a toxic relationship and get the help you need.
Early signs of a potentially abusive relationship include…
Isolating – wants to always be alone with you, keeps you from friends or activities, makes you feel dependent, tries to interrupt or end friendships
Jealousy – possessive or insecure, fishes for compliments often around other people, gets jealous or condemns you for talking to or spending time with others, feels insulted easily
Quick Involvement – comes on strong, pressures for a deep relationship quickly, flattery, obsessive behavior
Escalating signs include…
Controlling – keeps tabs on you at all times, gets mad or insecure when you don’t respond right away, suggests how you should dress, talk or act, makes decisions for you
Humiliation – publicly or privately insults you, makes you feel bad about yourself, offers back-handed compliments, preys on your insecurity
Punishing – makes you believe everything is your fault, shames you, makes you feel sorry for them, never apologies and makes an excuse for bad behavior
Clear signs include…
Sexual Demands or Abuse – pushes you past your comfort zone or boundaries, pressures you, only considers their own needs, punishes you for not complying, forces you, sexually abuses you
Ongoing Emotional and Mental Abuse – breaks down your self-esteem, preys on your insecurities, berates you, makes you feel ugly or unloved, makes you cry often, makes you feel worthless and alone
Physical Abuse – shoves or pushes you, slaps you, hits you or any other physical assault on your body
Contact www.thehotline.org if you are in an abusive relationship and want out. If you feel your relationship is unhealthy or emotionally abusive and would like to talk to someone, send us a message.
Pregnancy and Abuse
If you’re pregnant (or think you are pregnant) and in an abusive relationship, we can help. Even if you cannot come alone to your appointment, your options consultation and ultrasound scan are both times for just you and your client advocate and the nurse.
No matter what your circumstances are, no one can force you to have an abortion or make a decision against your will. We will help you learn your rights and what options are available to you.
We can also help connect you with resources and support in and around Plymouth, New Hampshire.
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