Need Help?
Am I in an Abusive Relationship?
Know the Warning Signs:
- Extreme jealousy
- Constant put-downs
- Telling you what to do
- Explosive temper
- Threats
- Possessiveness
- Financial Control
- Preventing you from doing things you want to do
- Big mood swings
- Making false accusations
- History of violence
- Keeping you from seeing or talking with family and friends
Not all of these signs will be in every abusive relationship. If one or more of
these warning signs exist in your relationship, it doesn’t necessarily mean that
your relationship is abusive, but your relationship may not be as healthy as you
deserve it to be.
Relationship Guidelines:
It’s okay to feel jealous when you’re in a relationship.
It’s not okay to use jealousy as an excuse to control someone.
We all have feelings of insecurity that can make us worry that the person we’re
dating might find someone else more attractive, interesting or fun. Even though
it’s normal to feel jealous, a healthy relationship is built on trust. If the
person you’re dating tries to control what you wear, who you spend time with or
where you go, the relationship may be abusive.
It’s okay for people in a relationship to disagree or argue at times.
It’s not okay for disagreements to become personal attacks.
Couples can disagree, and even argue, while still being respectful toward one
another. You should feel comfortable expressing your ideas without fear of threats
or personal attacks. No one has the right to put you down, insult your opinions,
or tell you that you’re stupid.
It’s okay for people to get into “bad moods.”
It’s not okay for someone’s mood swings to cause constant tension, or
make you feel like you’re “walking on eggshells.”
No one is always happy, and it’s important for people who care for each other to be
able to share what is upsetting them. But if you’re often afraid to say or do
something because it might make the person you’re with angry, your relationship
may not be as healthy as you deserve.
Break the Cycle can help you figure out if your relationship is emotionally,
verbally, physically or sexually abusive. Our services are always free and
confidential.