Is What You're Going Through Considered "Domestic/Dating Violence" if You Aren't Physically Harmed?

© Michelle Chan

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence and dating violence are important topics that need to be discussed, for it is something that typically happens behind closed doors, and has the potential to be passed on for generations. Upon hearing the words "domestic violence," the first thoughts most,people conjure up is that it involves a physical act (e.g. punching, kicking, slapping, etc.). But did you know that domestic violence can occur in many forms, many of which don't require any physical contact at all?!

Sometimes, the person being abused may not even realize that it is occurring! While bruises/marks may not be present or visible, significant and lasting damage and harm could have been caused.  For your safety, and the safety of your loved ones, be sure you know the signs of physical abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, sexual abuse and coercion, financial abuse, etc! Not quite sure how anything other than physical abuse "looks"? Here is a 2 minute clip that shows what emotional and financial abuse looks like:

While the majority of those who abuse their partners are men, there are also women who abuse their partners. So beware of the behaviors of others, as well as those of your own. Abuse has a way of leaving lasting pain, even if no physical bruising or marks were ever present or have long since disappeared.

How many of your answers are "yeses" to the following questions?

If you know or believe you are in an abusive relationship, reach out for help by chatting with and/or calling The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1(800) 799-7233 (SAFE) for free!

If you reside in the San Gabriel Valley, please also check out additional information and the services available through YWCA's WINGS (Women in Need Growing Strong) Domestic Violence or call them to talk on their 24-hour helpline at 1(626) 967-0658,

​IMPORTANT TIPS TO REMEMBER:
*Clear your browser or internet search history
*If you plan on leaving your partner, DO NOT tell your partner ahead of time, because that can endanger your and/or your children's lives!
*It's scary and it's frightening, but don't be afraid to reach out and ask questions and ask for assistance! There are people who will help get you to safety and keep you safe!

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​“Love is always bestowed as a gift – freely, willingly, and without expectation…. We don’t love to be loved; we love to love.” – Leo Buscaglia