H.A.V.E.N. Update
By Cathleen Osborne-Gowey (Program Admin – Crime Victim Advocate) COsbornegowey@estoo.net
Program Update:
Hello all –
By the time you read this…we can officially say we survived the crazy cold and snowstorm of February! This past month has been a good one for us. Our 5-year 2020 OVC grant budget was finally approved so we’ll be able to move forward with our program goals. While COVID restrictions still apply, we have progressed with serving clients and providing education and outreach to our community.
February was Teen Violence Dating Awareness Month
Have you talked to the teens in your life (kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews) about healthy relationships? Do they know what’s healthy and what’s not? Do they know the warning signs of an abusive relationship? Do you?
“Relationships may be defined in different ways depending on who’s involved, but healthy relationships all depend on a few key elements: healthy communication, healthy boundaries, mutual respect, and support for one another. Check in with each other’s needs regularly while also giving each other space and privacy and be sure to keep an eye out for the warning signs of dating abuse”. (loveisrespect.org)
It’s so important to make sure that we and our teens understand what the warning signs of dating abuse look. Here are a few of the signs – do you notice any of these things happening in your teens relationship? Have you seen your teen check their boyfriend or girlfriends social media accounts? Have you noticed your teen worrying that their partner temper? Take time this month and talk with your teen.
Warning Signs:
- Checking your phone, email, or social media accounts without your permission.
- Putting you down frequently, especially in front of others.
- Isolating you from friends or family (physically, financially, or emotionally).
- Extreme jealousy or insecurity.
- Explosive outbursts, temper, or mood swings.
- Any form of physical harm.
- Possessiveness or controlling behavior.
- Pressuring you or forcing you to have sex.
Abusive relationships are all about power and control. While your teen may be unwilling or unable to leave their relationship right now, it’s important that they know that abusive partners are unlikely to change their behavior. You and your teens first priority should always be personal safety.
Contact Haven to discuss your teen’s situation and to identify possible signs of an unhealthy or abusive relationships.
If you see something – or have questions – call! Our advocates are always here to listen and walk you through the next steps.
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/
Program Email: havenprogram@estoo.net
Facebook: HAVEN Tribal Program, Twitter: @ProgramHaven, Instagram: HAVENTRIBALProgram.
Our advocates are here to help!
