According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, approximately 20 people experience abuse by their partner every minute. No matter your ethnicity, age, or gender, domestic violence and abuse can occur within any relationship and needs to be taken seriously. Bo Dietl warns of 7 signs that domestic abuse may be happening to your or a loved one:

  1. Your partner makes you feel helpless, guilty, and/or humiliated.
  2. Your partner denies their actions and blames you for them.
  3. You feel afraid and/or unsafe around your partner.
  4. Your partner ignores you, puts you down, or belittles your accomplishments.
  5. Your partner destroys your belongings or prevents you from contacting them.
  6. He/she is controlling and acts possessive over you or your belongings.
  7. Your partner threatens you either verbally or non-verbally.

Just because a partner may not be physically assaulting you does not mean they are not harming you in other ways. Violence and abuse can take many forms including physical, mental, or emotional. Never hesitate to reach out or speak up if you are in need of relationship help.