This week’s FYI email focuses on – abuse doesn’t always look like abuse with a video that shows exactly what we’re trying to say. Also, look at the bottom of the email for a reminder for our Rock Away the Silence Event!
Warning signs are not always as obvious as you might think. That’s because domestic abuse is about controlling someone’s mind and emotions as much as hurting their body. Being abused can leave you scared and confused. It can be hard for you to see your partner’s actions for what they really are.
Usually, physical abuse isn’t what comes first. The abuse can creep up slowly. A putdown here or there. An odd excuse to keep you away from family or friends. The violence often ramps up once you’ve been cut off from other people. By then, you feel trapped.
Signs of Abuse
If you’re afraid of your partner, that’s a big red flag. You may be scared to say what you think, to bring up certain topics, or to say no to sex. No matter the reason, fear has no place in a healthy relationship.
If you feel like you’re being abused, there’s a good chance you may be, and it’s worth getting help. Keep that in mind as you think about these signs:
Your partner bullies, threatens, or controls you:
- Accuses you of having an affair
- Blames you for abuse
- Criticizes you
- Tells you what to wear and how you should look
- Threatens to kill you or someone close to you
- Throws things or punches walls when angry
- Yells at you and makes you feel small
- Keeps cash and credit cards from you
- Puts you on an allowance and makes you explain every dollar you spend
- Keeps you from working whatever job you want
- Steals money from you or your friends
- Won’t let you have money for basic needs like food and clothes
Your partner cuts you off from family and friends:
- Keeps close tabs on where you go and whom you go with
- Makes you ask for an OK to see friends and family
- Embarrasses you in front of others, and it makes you want to avoid people
Your partner physically abuses you:
- Abandons you in a place you don’t know
- Attacks you with weapons
- Keeps you from eating, sleeping, or getting medical care
- Locks you in or out of your house
- Punches, pushes, kicks, bites, pulls hair
(This information was made possible by https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-domestic-abuse-signs#1)
If you have questions or are feeling unsafe in your home, please REACH OUT!
If you are able please call or see the messaging links above:
Haven Office: 918-554-2836
Text Line: 918.533.3070
Crime Victim Advocate: 541.602.0616
Program Website: https://havenprogram.com/
Facebook: HAVEN Tribal Program, Twitter: @ProgramHaven, Instagram: HAVENTRIBALProgram.
Our advocates are here to help!
After hours you can reach our local Community Crisis Center at 1.800.400.0883 and Strong Hearts Tribal Hotline at 1.844.762.8483
Also – don’t forget July is the Rock Away the Silence
Paint a Rock – Post a Picture – Win a Prize!
We challenge everyone to paint a rock and hide it in your area and inspire and encourage others. Then upload a picture of the rock you decorate and hide to our Facebook or Instagram page ( Facebook: HAVEN Tribal Program, Instagram: HAVENTRIBALProgram ) or email it to us (kallemann@estoo.net and cosbornegowey@estoo.net ) and enter for a chance to win an awesome prize!
- Paint a rock with a message or image to inspire and encourage someone.
- Hide the rock, somewhere in your local area, to be found by someone who might need inspiration or encouragement.
- Then take a picture of your rock, in its hiding place, and upload it to our Facebook or Instagram page (Facebook: HAVEN Tribal Program, Instagram: HAVENTRIBALProgram ) or email it to us (kallemann@estoo.net and cosbornegowey@estoo.net)
- Enter for a chance to win an awesome prize!
1st place will be your choice of an iPod or beats wireless headphones
2nd place $50 Food Card
3rd place $25 Food Card
