Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often overlooked, ignored or denied. This is especially true when the abuse is psychological, rather than physical. Acknowledging the signs of an abusive relationship is not only the first step to ending it, but it is an opening path to a positive, healthy life. No one should ever live in fear of the person they love. Take the quiz below and see if you recognize yourself or someone you know in the following warning signs and descriptions of abuse.

• Does the person use verbal weapons such as cursing, name calling, degrading comments, constant criticism, or blaming to get you to do something you don’t want to do or to keep you from doing something you want to do?  Yes  No

• Do you ever feel afraid of the person? Yes No

• Are you constantly finding yourself on a emotional rollercoaster? Yes  No

• Does your significant other isolate you? (keeping you away from your family and friends) Yes  No

• Does your partner threaten to commit suicide if you leave? Yes No

• Does your partner constantly check up on you? Yes  No

Domestic violence and abuse are used for one purpose and one purpose only: to gain and maintain total control over you. If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you may be in an emotionally abusive relationship. If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, speak up! And end the hurt.

In the past I personally suffered an emotionally abusive relationship, I understand it’s hard and you get tired of crying, hurting and even trying but don’t give up, there’s always hope.  

Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

The emotional warning signs of abuse

People who are being abused may:

• Have very low self-esteem, even if they used to be confident
• Show major personality changes (e.g. an outgoing person becomes
• withdrawn)
• Be depressed, anxious, or suicidal